Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Phillips are leaving no doubt about their desire to wear the Philippine colors.
Even as they await the completion of their transfer process to the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), the two Petro Gazz Angels have made it clear: they are all in once the green light comes.
Still officially affiliated with USA Volleyball, both Van Sickle and Phillips have voiced their intent to suit up for Alas Pilipinas in future international tournaments — a commitment they continue to hold close even after the conclusion of the Angels’ campaign at the 2025 AVC Champions League.
“I haven't heard any updates yet. I know that MJ and my paperwork have already been processed, so now we're just kind of waiting for the next step, I guess,” shared Van Sickle, who recently earned her second consecutive PVL All-Filipino Conference MVP award.
“We're waiting patiently and hoping. If we could represent the Philippines, that would be awesome. It’s an honorable thing, and also it's a great opportunity."
Though the paperwork remains pending, Van Sickle shared that she and Phillips are looking at ways to stay connected with Alas Pilipinas, including the possibility of joining the national team’s preparations even without official clearance yet.
“If we don’t get our paperwork done in time, I’d love to support the national team from the sidelines in the upcoming international tournaments,” said Van Sickle. “Just to even network and meet all the girls would be super cool. It's just kind of play it day by day. If we get an update and it goes well, then for sure, we’ll represent."
The former University of Hawaii standout remains grounded amid the uncertainty, but her excitement and pride in potentially representing the Philippines shone through.
“As of right now, we have no idea. It’s kind of up in the air. But even if we don’t end up playing, best of luck to the girls. I hope they stay healthy, and they’re going to do phenomenal. I’m really excited to watch them or even join them. I’m really stoked,” she added.
Van Sickle’s recent experience at the AVC Champions League already gave her a small taste of the international scene. Petro Gazz made a strong showing, pushing Beijing Baic Motor to five sets in the quarterfinals before ultimately bowing out with a hard-fought 29-31, 25-19, 25-20, 20-25, 12-15 defeat.
It was a tough loss, but one that underscored the fighting spirit of Van Sickle, Phillips, and the entire Angels squad — a spirit that both players hope to bring to Alas Pilipinas soon enough.
