In the world of youth sports, victories are often measured not only by trophies and scores, but also by the unwavering support standing proudly on the sidelines. For one dedicated group of parents from Abu Dhabi, supporting their daughters in volleyball has become a powerful movement built on love, sacrifice, and community spirit.
Every week, these proud families travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai to attend the DOVA volleyball competitions, ensuring that their daughters never compete alone. What began as simple parental support has transformed into a remarkable display of encouragement and unity that has become widely recognized within the volleyball community.
The parents regularly attend training sessions, cheering from the stands as the girls sharpen their skills and grow together as a team. On competition days, the excitement intensifies. Families organize hotel stays, prepare shared homemade meals, and turn the venue into a warm indoor picnic atmosphere filled with laughter, teamwork, and encouragement.
But their support does not stop there.
Armed with large custom-made banners, party horns, and booming snare drums, the parents create an electrifying environment that energizes both players and spectators. Their passionate cheering has become a familiar and unforgettable presence during DOVA tournaments.
Calling themselves #MYPP – Make Your Parents Proud, the group represents more than just supporters in the crowd. They symbolize commitment, family values, and the belief that children perform their best when surrounded by love and encouragement.
“Our daughters work hard every week, and we want them to feel that we are always behind them,” said one parent. “Win or lose, they already make us proud.”
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Coaches, organizers, and fellow spectators have praised the parents for their dedication and positive spirit, recognizing the important role they play in motivating the young athletes.
Most importantly, the parents’ commitment and sacrifices proved to be completely worthwhile when the Under-14 girls’ team achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming CHAMPIONS in the DOVA competition. Their success was not only a testament to the players’ hard work and determination but also reflected the powerful support system that stood behind them throughout the season. The championship victory became a proud and emotional moment for both the athletes and their families, validating every early morning, every journey between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and every hour spent cheering from the sidelines.
The championship victory was made even more special by the dedication and teamwork of the players: Akeisha Brielle Sarmiento, Audrey Nicole De Guzman, Flynne Andrea David, Jonafer Kylie Gregorio, Kara Joelle Magno, Michelle Venice Payawal, Rawdha Khan, Richel May Farrales, Amalia Duldulao, Jehan Khan, Yohanna Marin
Special recognition is also given to Team Captain Michelle Venice Payawal for leading the team with confidence and dedication, and to MVP of the Game Flynne Andrea David for her outstanding performance, fighting spirit and valuable contribution to the team’s success.
A special thanks to the coaches for their guidance, patience, dedication in developing the girls’ skills, confidence, teamwork and love for the sport. Their hard work and commitment played an important role in helping the team achieve this championship milestone.
A warm thank you also goes to the U16 girls, Aeisha Belle Saclapus and Mary Patino, for their unwavering support to the U14 team. Their presence, encouragement, and support helped inspire the younger players and showed the true spirit of teamwork, sisterhood, and unity.
In an era where youth sports can often become highly competitive and stressful, the #MYPP parents serve as a refreshing reminder that sports are also about family, friendship and unforgettable memories.
For these Abu Dhabi families, every journey to Dubai is more than a trip to a volleyball match — it is a celebration of togetherness, pride and unconditional support. And with the Under-14 girls crowned DOVA champions, the story stands as a shining example of how dedication, unity and unwavering parental support can help young athletes reach extraordinary heights.
