Aby Maraño Retires From Volleyball After 22-Year Career

Aby Maraño has announced her retirement from volleyball, ending a 22-year career that saw her win championships, represent the Philippines, and become one of Philippine volleyball’s most recognizable figures.

The veteran middle blocker announced her retirement from professional volleyball on Wednesday, September 16, closing the chapter on a playing career that began with the De La Salle University Lady Spikers.

“Some goodbyes hurt more than others. And this one… hurts more than I ever imagined,” Maraño wrote in her retirement post.

Maraño became one of La Salle’s key players, helping the Lady Spikers win three UAAP championships while also earning two UAAP Most Valuable Player awards.

Her career eventually extended to the professional ranks, where she spent 12 years playing for 10 different clubs. The Nxled Chameleons served as her final team.

Maraño also dedicated eight years to the Philippine women’s national team, eventually becoming one of its leaders and serving as team captain.

Looking back on her career, Maraño said she would choose to experience it all over again.

“IN A HEARTBEAT. Because volleyball gave me a life I never imagined I would have,” she said.

The former national team captain admitted that deciding to retire was not easy, especially after spending more than two decades in the sport.

Still, Maraño said she eventually found peace in her decision, knowing she had given everything to her career.

“BINUHOS KO LAHAT. LAHAT. LAHAT.”

Maraño added that she had nothing left to chase in her career and had no “what ifs” about her journey.

Although her playing days are over, Maraño made it clear that she will not be completely stepping away from volleyball.

“Kaya hindi ako tuluyang nagpapaalam sa volleyball. How could I? This sport is part of my DNA.”

She plans to continue supporting and advocating for the sport while remaining involved whenever opportunities arise.

After 22 years, Maraño now looks forward to discovering life beyond the volleyball court while carrying the lessons and memories of a career she gave everything to.

“This is not goodbye. This is simply me saying… Thank you for the most beautiful 22 years of my life as a player.”

For Maraño, the next chapter begins with no regrets—only gratitude.