The Women Behind the High Speed Hitters

The journey of the PLDT High Speed Hitters back to the podium in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference was built on determination, discipline, and resilience. Their bronze medal finish marked a significant milestone for the squad, ending years of waiting and proving they could once again compete among the league’s elite. Yet beyond the training sessions, recovery days, and intense matches, the players point to another source of strength that carried them through the season — their mothers.

As Mother’s Day arrives, the High Speed Hitters are looking beyond volleyball and shining the spotlight on the women who shaped their lives long before the cheers, cameras, and packed arenas. For the athletes, their success is deeply tied to the sacrifices, guidance, and unwavering support they received at home.

For Filipino-Canadian star Savi Davison, her mother’s influence has always centered on reassurance rather than pressure. While many athletes grow up burdened by expectations, Davison says her mother focused on reminding her that giving her best was always enough. That mindset became a source of calm in the demanding world of professional volleyball, where pressure can easily define an athlete’s confidence.

From driving her to practices to helping her navigate difficult moments in her career, Davison credits her mother for becoming the foundation of her growth both as a player and as a person. More than a parent, she describes her as a best friend whose strength and independence continue to inspire her.

Distance, however, is a reality many professional athletes must live with. Opposite hitter Jessey de Leon will be spending Mother’s Day away from home, relying on video calls to celebrate with her family. Even through screens, the bond remains meaningful. For de Leon, her mother’s love has always been quiet but steady — offering support without demanding attention.

She says her mother taught her the true meaning of sacrifice and unconditional care, lessons that continue to guide her throughout her career. Though separated by miles, technology and constant communication help bridge the gap, allowing moments of connection despite a hectic volleyball schedule.

Team captain and Best Libero awardee Kath Arado understands sacrifice on a deeper level. Raised in Iligan City, she recalls how her mother worked abroad as a caregiver to provide for their family. That sacrifice became one of the driving forces behind Arado’s determination to succeed.

This Mother’s Day, she plans to surprise her mother with flowers and cake delivered to Mindanao while celebrating through a video call. For Arado, it is a simple but heartfelt reminder that no distance can weaken the connection between a mother and child.

Outside hitter Alleiah Malaluan also reflects on the role her mother played in her volleyball journey. She describes her as her first supporter and strongest source of encouragement since childhood. As the team enters the offseason, Malaluan says she values the opportunity to reconnect emotionally with family after months of competition.

While the bronze medal symbolizes the High Speed Hitters’ hard work, the players believe their true victories are rooted in the people who never stopped believing in them. Behind every save, spike, and celebration is a mother whose love remained constant — proving that even in professional sports, the strongest support systems are often found at home.