Standing at just 5-foot-7, Kim Liray might be considered undersized for a volleyball player, but his dreams and determination are anything but small. Inspired by two-time UAAP MVP Josh Ybañez, Liray is proving that height isn’t everything in a sport dominated by taller athletes.
Just like his idol, the 17-year-old is making waves with his exceptional leaping ability and passion for the game, aiming to leave a mark in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
Ybañez, who has consistently defied expectations due to his stature, has become a beacon of hope for players like Liray. The outside hitter from VNS, much like Ybañez, has learned to embrace his height as a strength rather than a limitation. After VNS’s thrilling victory over Martelli Meats last Sunday, Liray shared how the UST star has inspired him.
“Kasi pareho po kami maliit, tas yung meron lang po kami yung talon. Siya po kasi matalon, tapos maliit din kaya idol ko po siya. Magaling po kasi siya maglaro kaya siya po yung nilu-look up ko ngayon na player,” said Liray.
Liray’s journey from his hometown in Bukidnon to playing under the bright lights of the Spikers’ Turf is one filled with determination and sacrifice. Like Ybañez, he refuses to let his height dictate his success. He dreams of catching the attention of collegiate scouts and securing a scholarship to continue his volleyball career.
“Gusto ko po na makilala ako ng mga coaches sa college kasi maliit po ako, kaya hindi ako agad mapapansin. Gusto ko po na sumikat dito sa Spikers’ Turf para mapansin ako ng mga coaches sa college,” he said.
Liray’s hunger for recognition doesn’t just stop there. He carries with him the pride of his hometown, a place where no volleyball player has yet gained national fame. He hopes to be the first.
“Sa Bukidnon po kasi, wala pang volleyball player na sumikat dun. Gusto ko po maging kauna-unahan,” Liray added, emphasizing his desire to make his family proud and inspire future athletes from his province.
His dedication to the sport is evident in the sacrifices he has made. For nearly two years, Liray has been training in Manila, far from his family and the comfort of home, all in pursuit of improving his skills and making his dreams a reality.
“Nandun lang po ako palagi sa dugout, araw-araw po ako nagte-training, nagwe-weights. ‘Di po ako umuuwi, magtu-two years na po akong nandito sa Maynila. Iyon po ang dahilan na ayaw ko umuwi—kasi gusto ko pong mag-improve,” he revealed.
That relentless work ethic paid off during VNS’s first victory of the tournament. Liray played a pivotal role, scoring 14 points—all from attacks—as VNS outlasted Martelli Meats, 25-21, 25-17, 29-27, at the Ynares Sports Arena.
Liray’s journey is just beginning, but his story is already one of resilience, passion, and the desire to defy the odds. Like Ybañez, he’s showing that with enough heart, even the smallest players can make the biggest impact. (CDR)
