Riza Nogales once stood tall as one of the most promising middle blockers in collegiate volleyball. A 6-foot force in the middle and a key figure for the University of the East Lady Warriors, she was expected to be a shoo-in for a first or early second-round selection in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Draft.
But fate had other plans.
After suffering a partial ACL tear in her right knee prior to the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, Nogales watched her draft stock slip significantly.
Once projected as one of the most sought-after middle blockers, she waited patiently as name after name was called, eventually hearing hers only in the third round as the 25th overall pick by ZUS Coffee.
Still, there was no bitterness in her voice — only gratitude.
"I'm very happy and grateful, and at the same time, excited, even though third round nila ako napili," said Nogales after the draft. "Aminado naman ako kasi may injury po kasi ako. But I'm looking forward to learning from the veterans and growing more with the team."
It’s that brand of honesty and resilience that has defined Nogales' journey — one marked by persistence even in the face of uncertainty.
She revealed that the injury, a partial tear in her ACL, happened before the UAAP season even started. Rather than sitting out, she chose to tough it out, suiting up for a full season with UE despite the obvious risks.
“Partial ACL tear, right knee. Before [the UAAP] season pa yun. Actually, this kakatapos na season, naglaro ako even with my injury. Pero yun, thankful naman kasi kinaya naman at hindi naman lumala o nadagdagan pa. Naraos naman yung season na healthy,” she said.
Despite going winless in 14 games, the Lady Warriors showed flashes of grit throughout the tournament — something that Nogales was proud to contribute to, even in limited form. Her willingness to power through injury, however, didn't go unnoticed.
It showcased a level of toughness and commitment that ZUS Coffee saw as a worthwhile investment.
“Actually, natapos ko naman yung season na all goods naman po, so hoping na makapaglaro this coming PVL kasi cleared to play naman. Okay naman. Looking forward na makapaglaro with the players,” she added, expressing confidence in her recovery and readiness for the next level.
ZUS Coffee’s selection of Nogales was more than just a gamble — it was a vote of confidence in her character and potential.
And for Nogales, the opportunity is made even more meaningful by a familiar presence on the sidelines: her former UE head coach, Jerry Yee.
“Malaking bagay kasi knowing Coach Jerry, siyempre Coach Jerry na yan. Yung program niya rin, nilu-look forward ko na mas mag-improve sa system at sa mga Ates,” she said.
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