Former Ateneo standout and Premier Volleyball League (PVL) veteran Jules Samonte has announced her retirement from professional volleyball at the age of 27, bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned more than a decade as she prepares for a new chapter in her life—motherhood.
Samonte, who is expecting her first child with Rain or Shine Elasto Painters guard Felix Lemetti, shared the emotional news through a heartfelt post on Facebook, reflecting on the journey that transformed her from a young aspiring athlete into one of the country’s respected volleyball players.
The versatile outside hitter described volleyball as more than just a sport, saying it became a defining part of her identity from the time she first picked up the game as a teenager.
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“As I prepare to enter a new chapter of my life, I can’t help but look back with a heart full of gratitude. Volleyball has been my source of joy, motivation and escape since I was maybe 13 years old. For almost half my life, it has been so much more than a sport. It gave me purpose, discipline, lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and countless incredible opportunities. It has shaped me into the person I never knew I could become,” Samonte wrote.
Looking back on her playing career, Samonte acknowledged both the triumphs and setbacks that helped shape her as an athlete and as a person.
“There were wins that made all the sacrifices worth it, losses that taught me resilience, and countless moments that made me into the woman I am today. I will carry every early morning call time, every training session, every bus/plane ride, every tear, every celebration forever.”
She also expressed gratitude to everyone who became part of her volleyball journey, from coaches and teammates to team staff, organizations, and the fans who supported her throughout the years.
“I am forever grateful for all the relationships I have created through this sport—my coaches, teammates, staff, organizations and the fans who became part of this journey. Thank you for believing in me, cheering for me, challenging me, and allowing me to live a dream I once only imagined.”
🏆 UAAP S79 Rookie of the Year
🥇 UAAP S81 Champion
🦅 Ateneo WVT
☎️ PLDT High Speed Hitters
🚗 Chery Tiggo CrossoversAs I step into my greatest role yet—becoming a mother—I’m choosing to close this chapter with nothing but gratitude.
Happy retirement, Jules Samonte! 💙 pic.twitter.com/e6urqMMOFh
— ً 🥢 (@jianfics) August 2, 2026
Although stepping away from the sport was an emotional decision, Samonte said she is ready to embrace what she described as the most meaningful role of her life.
“Now, as I step into my greatest role yet—becoming a mother—I’m choosing to close this chapter with nothing but gratitude. It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to the game that has been such a huge part of my life, but my heart is so full knowing that this ending is making way for a beautiful new beginning.”
She ended her message by sharing her hopes for her growing family and the legacy she wants to leave behind.
“Volleyball will always be a part of me and one day, I hope my daughter grows up knowing that her mom chased a dream with all her heart—and that because of it, she is learning to become the best mom she could possibly be. All for you, and all because of you. Here’s to the next chapter.”
Samonte first rose to national prominence during her collegiate career with the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). Bursting onto the scene in Season 79, she immediately established herself as one of the country’s brightest young talents, earning Rookie of the Year honors after an impressive debut campaign.
Her development continued over the next several seasons as she became an important piece of Ateneo’s championship core. The highlight of her collegiate career came in UAAP Season 81 in 2019 when she helped the Lady Eagles capture the league title, cementing her place in one of the most successful eras in the program’s history.
Following her collegiate success, Samonte transitioned to the professional ranks, beginning her career with Perlas before joining the Premier Volleyball League. Throughout her time in the country’s top professional league, she suited up for several clubs, including the PLDT High Speed Hitters, Cherry Tiggo Crossovers, and most recently the Galeries Tower Highrisers.
Known for her versatility, work ethic, and team-first mentality, Samonte became a dependable presence wherever she played, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. While she may not have always been the biggest star on the court, her consistency and professionalism made her a valuable contributor throughout her professional career.
Her retirement also marks the end of a volleyball journey that began in her early teens and blossomed into a career filled with memorable achievements, lifelong friendships, and experiences that extended well beyond the game itself.
As she steps away from competitive volleyball, Samonte leaves behind a legacy defined not only by championships and individual accolades but also by perseverance, humility, and dedication.
While fans will no longer see her competing on the court, the former Lady Eagle begins a new and equally meaningful journey—one centered on family and motherhood, a role she says she is ready to embrace with the same passion that defined her volleyball career.
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