University of the Philippines (UP) captain Nica Celis is taking the next step in her volleyball career as she expressed willingness to join the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft on 7 June.

The 23-year-old middle blocker is coming off a very impressive performance after leading the Fighting Maroons to a fifth-place finish in Season 87 University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball tournament.

Her leadership was pivotal in UP’s campaign, which is a threefold increase in wins compared to each of the previous two seasons. Her presence at the net and her ability to coordinate the block–attack transition elevated a squad previously mired near the bottom of the standings.

Key victories came against UAAP heavyweights Far Eastern University, National University and De La Salle University — wins that announced the Fighting Maroons’ resurgence as a serious contender.

“My time here has been challenging,” Celis said. “But you have to find the good in every situation and make it work.”

Should she hear her name called on draft day, Celis would join an impressive roster of the Fighting Maroons in the PVL like Tots Carlos of Creamline, Isa Molde of Choco Mucho, Nicole Tiamzon of Petro Gazz, Jewel Encarnacion of Galeries Tower and Steph Bustrillo of Akari.

Meanwhile, hopefuls have just one week left to submit their applications for the draft.

The deadline for application submissions is set for 23 May 2025. 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.

Applicants are reminded to double-check that all forms are accurately filled out and all necessary documents are attached to avoid any delays or disqualification.

To qualify, applicants must be female at birth, as confirmed by a Philippine Statistics Authority-issued birth certificate.

They must be at least 21 years old by 31 December 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.