Philippine women’s volleyball team coaches Jorge Edson Souza de Brito and Odjie Mamon explained their decision to omit national team fixtures Alyssa Valdez and Jia Morado, as well as libero Kath Arado out of the 25-member pool.

According to the Brazilian mentor, who will call the shots for Team Choco Mucho, the team is focusing on rebuilding the program by prioritizing youth and length in selecting talents in the national team.

The Philippines is all set for the 2021 AVC Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship on Oct. 1 to 7 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

“I need some fresh players, younger and taller,” said Souza de Brito during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday.

“We have a plan how to make our national team taller and younger,” Souza de Brito said. “I think you have here all the best. It's good everyone has access to social media. I respect them but we, the coaches, are always trying to do the best for the volleyball team. We’re taking the best position until now.”

Interestingly, the 30-year old setter Rhea Dimaculungan was picked over 26-year old Morado, 28-year old Valdez, and 23-year old Arado.

According to Team Rebisco coach Odjie Mamon, Dimaculangan was already considered before the Subic tryouts began in May, and the non-inclusion of the trio was not his decision.

“It was out of my hands kasi hindi na ako yung namili nun. With regards to the selection, it’s done. We are very hopeful of this team,” he said.

Team Rebisco will feature Dimaculangan, as well as skipper Aby Maraño, Eya Laure, Jema Galanza, Faith Nisperos, Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Mhicaela Belen, Imee Hernandez, Ivy Lacsina, Kamille Cal, Jennifer Nierva, and Bernadette Pepito.

On the other hand, Team Choco Mucho will parade talents like team captain Iris Tonelada, Kalei Mau, MJ Phillips, Tin Tiamzon, Kat Tolentino, Mylene Paat, Kianna Dy, Ria Meneses, Majoy Baron, Dell Palomata, Deanna Wong, and Dawn Macandili.

It will be the first time since the 2015 SEA Games that Valdez will not be on the national team.