RACHEL Daquis is embracing a new role on her return from semi-retirement.
RACHEL Anne Daquis made a triumphant return to active competition on Thursday. Yet unlike before, she’s not expected to pile up the points for her team.
But yes, she’s counted upon to inspire her teammates in the way only her presence on the court could bring.
After almost two years of absence, and much speculation that she will be shifting to a coaching career, Daquis saw action in Farm Fresh’s four-set win over Galeries Tower in the Premier Volleyball League.
“I have nothing left to chase in my career. This is for the younger players,” Daquis was quoted as saying.
“My biggest contribution now is showing them leadership on the court and how to stay united as a team.”
Daquis, 37, made a brief two-set appearance and scored a point for the team in her highly anticipated appearance.
Her presence brought in a tinge of nostalgia to the crowd who have come to love Daquis’ powerful spikes, bright smile and endearing presence.
“I used to love playing with power. Now, I love playing smarter,” Daquis said.
“Even in practice, I outthink my teammates, and they get frustrated. But that’s the mindset—you don’t always need power. With so many strong young players today, intelligence on the court is still the greatest advantage.”
After all, Daquis has been there, done that, so to speak.
For more than 20 years, she has lifted crowns for the Far Eastern University as well as Philippine Army in the collegiate and commercial leagues.
That’s on top of serving as team captain for the Philippine team after it returned to the Southeast Asian Games back in 2015.
Her shift in approach highlights the evolving nature of the sport, where brute force alone no longer dictates success. Daquis is imparting the importance of game IQ, mental toughness, and adaptability to the younger generation.
Rising star Trisha Tubu is taking care of the points. She erupted for a career-high 33 points in Farm Fresh’s latest win.
“That’s where I see my biggest contribution,” Daquis said. “Look at Tubu—33 points. She has all the tools to succeed.”