Sports Vision President Ricky Palou expressed gratitude to Roces who played for the University of the East (UE) in the UAAP and won multiple titles while serving as a guest player for several teams back in the Shakey’s V-League.

“We are grateful to have had a player like Sue Roces in our league. Coming from University of the East, she was a true warrior, never backing down from any challenge,” wrote Palou. 

“Though it is sad to see her retire, we would also like to celebrate her career. We are thankful to have helped in developing her and it was an honor seeing her grow, not just as a player but also as a person. Thank you, Sue! Good luck on your next journey,” he continued.

In a social media post, Roces thanked PVL for honoring her retirement including the fans that have believed her throughout her career.

“Maraming maraming salamat PVL. Masaya ako na sa ligang ito naibahagi ko ang aking talento. Isa kayo sa humubog sa akin bilang isang atleta. Sobrang blessed ako dahil naging malaking parte ng journey ko ang PVL,” Roces said in a statement. 

Back in 2002, Roces began her volleyball career with the UE Lady Warriors where she was named UAAP Season 65 Rookie of the Year.

The opposite hitter then took her talent to Shakey’s V-League where she won multiple championship titles, including the 2007 second conference, 2008 second conference, 2021 Open Conference, and steered Ateneo to its First Conference crown in the same year.

The UE standout also won back-to-back championships in the 2015 season with powerhouse PLDT after teaming up with Alyssa Valdez, Jaja Santiago, and Grethcel Soltones under head coach Roger Gorayeb.

Roces last played in the PVL’s professional debut with the Perlas Spikers in the 2021 Open Conference in Ilocos Norte before deciding to retire on Monday.

Apart from her skill in volleyball, Roces was known for becoming “a mentor to the student-athletes in the schools she joined.”

“We knew from there that she has a future in coaching,” Palou said of Roces, who has indicated that she plans to pursue a coaching career after hanging up her sneakers.

“Though it is sad to see her retire, we would also like to celebrate her career. We are thankful to have helped in developing her, and it was an honor seeing her grow, not just as a player but also as a person,” Palou said. “Thank you, Sue! Good luck on your next journey!”