MANILA, Philippines —Ann Monares had her sister and University of the Philippines star, Joan, on her side as she overcame the uncertainty and achieved her pro dream in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft on Sunday at Novotel.

After hearing her name selected by Farm Fresh in the second round, the libero out of Far Eastern University still couldn’t believe it and shared that she was still shaking after ending the uncertainty and finally landing on a team.

HIGHLIGHTS:  2025 PVL Rookie Draft

Ann thanked her sister Joan, who opted to stay one more year with the Fighting Maroons, for being with her on her special day.

“I told her a few days ago that I was really nervous because it’s a new chapter for me. She’s been super supportive all the way,” said the 16th overall pick in Filipino.

Ann Monares is chosen by Farm Fresh Foxies in the PVL Rookie Draft 2025. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“I’m not even sure if I was nervous or just really excited. But thank you so much for the opportunity earlier. I’m so grateful to have been picked. As a libero, I kind of knew that most teams usually prioritize other positions, so I was really surprised and excited that they chose a libero. I honestly didn’t expect it,” she added.

The UP Fighting Maroon gave courage to Ann, saying she had a great run with FEU, which made back-to-back Final Four appearances.

READ: PVL: Ann Monares hungry for more improvement ahead of draft

“Of course, it’s normal to feel nervous during the draft, you don’t know what’s going to happen, and a lot of it is out of your control. I reminded her that she had a great run in the UAAP and even in the seasons before that. All of that will definitely help her as she transitions into the pros,” said Joan.

“I just tried to be there for her, to comfort her and say, ‘Someone will pick you. Just trust yourself.’ At this point, there’s no reason to doubt, you’ve put in the work. Now it’s the teams’ turn to make their choice.”

Joan was a proud sister, seeing her younger sibling go to the stage and receive a Farm Fresh scarf.

“I’m super proud of her. I’m really happy she’s stepping out of her comfort zone and entering a more competitive level in volleyball. I know she can handle it, and wherever this journey takes her, I’m confident she’ll do great,” she said.

“I know it’s not going to be easy. But as long as she does what she needs to do, keeps showing up, and stays consistent, everything will fall into place.”

As the newest Foxy, Ann is looking forward to learning from veteran libero Jheck Dionela.

“I’ve already trained with her, and you can really see how she moves—so calm and confident, like she knows exactly what she’s doing. In training and hopefully in future PVL games, I want to learn from that too—to move with the same composure and awareness on the court.