A single tweet instantly shocked the volleyball community on a Friday night.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, a member of the 12-man lineup of Philippines' return to the Southeast Asian Games tweeted that she trained at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym only to find out she has already been replaced in the lineup.
Maizo has won 3 Finals MVPs, 2 Conference MVPs, Best Scorer, Best Attacker, Best Server and Best Blocker awards in the Shakey's V-League, becoming the most awarded player in the said league. She has also won Best Scorer, Best Attacker and Best Receiver awards in UAAP for UST Growling Tigresses.
One of Philippines' reliable liberos Jheck Dionela has expressed her support for the multi-awarded lefty.
But in contrast of the support Maizo has been getting from the fans, it is Ateneo's incoming sophomore Bea de Leon who has been receiving the bashing.
It started when she is reportedly to replace Aby Maraño in the lineup, and now for the great Aiza Maizo.
No Philippine team coaching staff nor SEA Games officials have confirmed or denied any of the lineup rumors stated. But these confusions have definitely disappointed the vastly-growing supporters of volleyball in the country.
It is in these times where love for the sport will be tested.
