PVL: ‘Overlooked’ in Canada, Yveian Orpiano tries to make mark in PH

Yveian Orpiano takes a chance in the PVL Rookie Draft.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Another Filipino-Canadian Yveian Orpiano hopes to showcase her talent in the PVL as she vies for a pro stint in the 2025 Rookie Draft on Sunday at Novotel. 

After Savi Davison made waves two years ago and libero Aleiah Torres was drafted by Creamline as the 12th overall pick last year, Orpiano chases her volleyball dream in the Philippines.

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“Realistically speaking, I had no future in Canada for volleyball as being 5’4. You’re always kind of overlooked, especially when you’re shorter,” said the outside spiker.

“This window opened for me last December and I just kind of took the opportunity to play with my [Filipino] people and show them what short [players] can do on the court.”

Orpiano was a reserved player for Concordia University of Edmonton, but she’s been playing the sport since Grade 6.

“Not really much of an experience in university. I was more of a reserve player so I never really touched the floor there,” she said.

“Right now, there are lots of things that I can improve and bring to the table as everyone here is skilled, fast, and diverse. I think I can bring in the energy to the league.”

READ: PVL: Rookie Aleiah Torres shows promise in Creamline debut

Orpiano was grateful to get a chance to show how she plays in the two-day Draft Combine at Paco Arena last week.

“It’s very crucial, especially for foreign players since we weren’t exposed to the UAAP or the NCAA. I think it’s really important for the other players from different countries to be able to show their skills in the combine,” she said.

Orpiano seeks to follow the footsteps of Torres after getting drafted last year and was able to prove her worth in the PVL.

“I think she’s one of the first Fil-Canadians that I saw break the barrier of [players] coming from overseas to play in the Philippines and I really look up to her,” she said.