How Deanna Wong Overcame Criticism to Shine in Volleyball
DEANNA WONG – Volleyball star Deanna Wong proves that criticism won’t hold her back as she continues to rise in the sport despite the negativity online.
Deanna Wong has faced intense challenges and loneliness during the early days of her journey to success. Leaving her hometown, Cebu, at 16, Deanna braved the uncertainties of Manila to chase her dreams—not just for herself but also for her family.
Fresh out of high school, Deanna’s courage, discipline, and determination were put to the test as she adjusted to life and competition in the big city. In an interview on the online Bisaya talk show Kuan On One hosted by Melai Cantiveros, Deanna shared how she ended up pursuing volleyball, despite initially dreaming of basketball like her father.

Deanna shared that she initially got involved in volleyball after a classmate invited her to join their Intramurals. Despite being unfamiliar with the sport, she decided to try out for Adamson University’s team and was surprised when she was chosen not just for the intramurals but also for the varsity team. This experience marked the moment she summoned the courage to take on the new challenge.
The initial two years of college proved to be extremely difficult for Deanna. She found the training intimidating and felt overwhelmed, especially without a support system at the dormitory, which often led her to cry. Despite these challenges, she remained determined, holding on to the belief that her efforts and struggles would eventually pay off—and they did.
This period marked the start of her becoming stronger and more resilient. “Palagay ko, ‘yon din ang punto sa buhay ko na doon ako nag-umpisa na maging malakas. Kailangan mo siyang maranasan to go through life. Wala namang madali sa buhay” she shared.

Deanna’s rise to fame also came with the downside of losing her privacy. She has been criticized and accused of ignoring her fans. When asked how she handles online judgment, Deanna said, “Patulan mo man sila o hindi, may masasabi pa rin sila sa ’yo. So, if you try to defend yourself, it will just stir up more criticism or issue pa rin. So, hinayaan ko sa paraan na alam kong lilipas din naman ‘yon, na magiging okay din.”
She concluded, “Kasi ‘yun nga, kahit anong gawin mong paliwanag sa isang tao kung hindi sila marunong umunawa, wala ka talagang magagawa…They can say what they want to say, pero for me, there’s a time and place naman for everything.”
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