UP's Nica Celis. UAAP Media/file
MANILA, Philippines – University of the Philippines women's volleyball team captain Nica Celis has declared for the 2025 Premiere Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft.
Celis, a 5-foot-10 middle blocker, has announced her attempt to join the pros after a decent showing with the Fighting Maroons in the recently concluded UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament, where they finished fifth.
READ: Gagate goes 1st overall as La Salle players taken early in PVL Draft
With Celis at the skipper position, the national state university has managed to be in contention for the Final Four in Season 87, overcoming 1-13 campaigns in the previous seasons.
"The best lesson I learned throughout my years in UP is tibayan ang utak at puso. My stay has been very challenging talaga, but you really have to find the good in everything and make everything work out," said Celis in a statement.
"Before coming to UP, pangarap ko lang naman talaga mag-UAAP, and alam ko, I have to really work hard to get there."
--PVL DRAFT APPLICATION DEADLINE COMING SOON--
Meanwhile, the PVL has reminded draft hopefuls that there is only one week left before the deadline.
The deadline for application submissions is set for next Friday, May 23.
READ: PVL opens applications for 2025 Rookie Draft on April 21
Interested applicants must complete the official draft application form, available online at http://pvl.ph/draft. Once completed, the form along with all required supporting documents should be sent via email to draft@pvl.ph, the league said.
Here are other requirements, according to the PVL:
To qualify, applicants must be female at birth, as confirmed by a PSA-issued birth certificate. They must be at least 21 years old by Dec. 31, 2025. Those younger than 21 may still be eligible provided they have already completed a college degree. However, there are no requirements related to collegiate playing experience or academic units.
Filipino-foreign applicants, meanwhile, are required to submit a valid Philippine passport or an official receipt confirming its release by the May 23 deadline.
Those who have competed in collegiate volleyball in the Philippines, but not under the UAAP or NCAA, must provide an endorsement letter from their collegiate coach or athletic director.
All aspiring PVL Draft candidates must submit a medical clearance issued by a licensed physician, certifying they are fit to play, along with a signed medical declaration.
Additionally, applicants are required to provide a notarized statement confirming they have no existing commitments with any collegiate or club team prior to entering the draft.