From Big 12 to Manila: RC Cola’s Holst shares PH volleyball experience

MANILA, Philippines – Coming off a heartbreaking loss in the first 5-setter semifinal of the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix held in Legazpi, the Lady Troopers were left wondering why things didn’t go their way as they hopped on a plane back to Manila. 

But for the 6-foot-4 open spiker Kierra Holst, the weekend trip is one that she won’t soon forget. 

“We had an excellent game in front of a great crowd. We actually went to the peak [of the Mayon Volcano], and it was a great little adventure. I have like 50 million pictures, I was so excited about it!” mused Holst. 

The former University of Oklahoma star, alongside Hailey Ripley, suited up for RC Cola this year in an effort to bring Army back to the Grand Prix championship. While they eventually succumbed to defending champions Foton, the Lady Troopers will see final action as they face the F2 Logistics on Thursday, December 8 with the bronze medal finish at stake. 

From soccer to volleyball 

A number of athletes gracing the world stage today may have tried out different sports growing up before sticking to the one they loved the most. Holst is no exception. 

“My parents were very enthusiastic to have me signed up as much as possible. I was on the basketball team, the softball team, the volleyball team, the soccer team, even on the swim team.” 

Admittedly, the passion for her current sport only began during her early teens. The former United States juniors national team member only started engaging in volleyball seriously when she was 14.

“I just loved the sport of volleyball. I thought it was more quick-paced, a lot more action – so I picked it over soccer.” 

“As soon as I got to high school, I really figured that volleyball was what I wanted to do for as long as I possibly could,” recalled Holst. “I just wanted it to be part of my life.” 

Competitive spirit 

When she’s not playing, one could find Holst safely tucked in bed enjoying a good book or watching a film with friends. How she’s like out on the court, on the other hand, is a completely different story. Her innate competitive spirit propelled the Oklahoma Volleyball standout to reach the goals she had set for herself while playing in the collegiate level. 

“I had a great team [in University of Oklahoma] to back me up, my setter loved to set me all the time. I tried to break as many records as I could. [I wanted] to leave the school and be one of the best players they’ve ever had.”

True enough, Holst’s enthusiasm seemed like a perfect fit for Army’s battle cry. 

The Manila experience 

After a few talks and deliberations with her coaches and Foton’s import Ariel Usher, Holst finally made the decision to take her skills to Manila. With few expectations in mind, the 2012 All-Big 12 Freshman Team selection was quite surprised at how defensive-minded the Filipina players are. 

“In the US, there’s a very offensive system. There are a lot of big hitters, not many people are using trick shots. The defense is also a little bit lacking.” 

“But when I came here, the defense is excellent. It’s really hard to put down a ball. The hitters also play a lot smarter.” 

When asked what she would want to share to her loved ones about the country, Holst remarked that she would definitely recommend giving Filipino food a try.

And just in case you were wondering, one of her favorites is – you guessed it – adobo. 

“I think we’ve had adobo like a million times. It’s so good! I [also] love all the fruits here. All these more tropical fruits – I love them.” 

Apart from the wide range of Filipino cuisine, Holst likewise shared that she won’t forget the locals’ hospitality, and of course, the bond she has created with her Army teammates.

“A couple of girls in the team would come over and make food for us sometimes, show us around outside the city when we have the chance. They really made us feel like a family here,” said Holst. 

Looking forward 

In the midst of learning a few Tagalog words and going on weekend trips to Batangas and Tagaytay, the Texas native reflected on her eye-opening experience here in Asia and the PSL. 

“I think you guys [Filipinos] play at a very high level, very high-paced game. Your defense is excellent, which is always gonna be a challenge for everybody outside of the Philippines. I think you guys are growing really strong.” 

For the time being, Holst is looking at other countries where she could continue playing professionally for the next year or two. Puerto Rico and Europe top her list, but when asked if she would ever consider coming back to Manila given the chance, the RC Cola standout remained optimistic. 

“Yeah, I think I definitely would. I had a good time here, I love the atmosphere and the place. I would be honored to be invited back to play here again.” – Rappler.com