Umandal rediscovers passion for volleyball

Manila Times - Nov 1, 2026

JAU Umandal’s love for volleyball resurrected after stepping away from the court for six months. The 28-year-old Umandal admitted that his motivation for the game diminished and was not the same as before — but he was glad that he joined the young VNS (Volleyball Never Stops) Griffins squad, where he rediscovered his passion for the sport once again. Umandal, a 2024 PNVF Men’s Champions League Most Valuable Player (MVP) and a four-time MVP in Spikers’ Turf, assisted VNS in scoring its first win in the 2026 Invitational Conference after a 30-28, 25-20, 25-21 sweep of AFP. “I stepped away for some time. I lost my willingness and my patience, and now, joining this team, I realized a lot. I realized that I am just like them back then, dreaming and trying,” he told the media in Filipino. “I am happy that it all returned; that’s why I am thankful that I was given a chance. I am happy for this opportunity.” Umandal formerly headlined the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup lineup for Alas men, and is a co-captain with Marck Espejo. This time, Umandal is leading a younger group in the local league, and his experience is much needed. “My experience has also expanded too because I...

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