Player Profile Series: Rachel Daquis – Reign Beyond the Court

Before she became a volleyball icon, a cover girl, and a fitness entrepreneur, Rachel Anne Daquis was just a young girl in Rizal with a dream and a pair of knee pads. Her journey from schoolyard rallies to the national spotlight is not just a story of athletic triumph—it’s a testament to heart, hustle, and reinvention.

Born on December 13, 1987, Daquis first discovered her passion for volleyball during her high school years at Juan Sumulong Memorial Junior College. It was not long before her natural talent and towering presence led her to Far Eastern University (FEU), where she took up Business Management—a course that would later complement her entrepreneurial pursuits.

During her time at FEU, she quickly rose through the ranks to become team captain of the FEU Lady Tamaraws, earning the moniker “Queen Tamaraw”—a title that symbolized both her athletic dominance and her influence within the squad. 

In 2008, she led FEU to a UAAP championship, marking a career-defining moment in her collegiate journey.

Daquis’ leadership extended beyond college. In 2014, she was named team captain of PLDT HOME TVolution, proudly representing the Philippines at the Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship. That same year, she also joined the Ateneo Lady Eagles as a guest player in the 10th season of the Shakey’s V-League, helping the team secure a runner-up finish.

Her stint with the Philippine Army Lady Troopers was equally decorated as she captured titles and awards, including the SOS Clear Skin In & Out Of The Court Award, and spearheaded a championship run in the 11th season of Shakey’s V-League.

Her career in the Philippine Super Liga (PSL) only strengthened her legacy. Representing TMS-Philippine Army in 2013, she was honored as the PSL Face of the League, highlighting her dual impact as a top-tier athlete and as a public figure.

In 2015, she demonstrated her versatility once again, teaming up with fellow volleyball stars Cha Cruz, Michele Gumabao, and Gretchen Ho to capture the Nestea Beach Volleyball title in Boracay.

That same year, Daquis took her talents to the international stage, donning the national colors at the 2015 Southeast Asian Games in Singapore. Her standout performance, and undeniable charisma, earned attention from the media across the region. 

Shortly after, she was tapped to join PSL Manila to compete in the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship held in Manila in October 2016—a historic moment for Philippine volleyball.

Over the years, Daquis suited up for multiple teams such as Generika-Army, RC Cola-Army, and Petron, amassing championships and personal honors. But it was in 2017, when she established her longest and most impactful stint with the Cignal HD Spikers. There, she emerged as one of the league’s most seasoned leaders and played a key role as the team transitioned from the PSL to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) in 2021.

Following a short break from the spotlight, Rachel made headlines once again in October 2024 when she joined the Farm Fresh Foxies and ushered in a bold new chapter in her ever-evolving volleyball career.

Beyond the volleyball court, Rachel blossomed into a well-known media personality and style icon. Her striking looks and strong persona landed her on the cover of FHM Philippines twice—in 2014 and again in 2016, when she was also named the 8th sexiest woman in the Philippines. She also ventured into culinary arts and took on endorsement roles with brands like Snow Caps, mySlim, and more.

In 2015, Daquis added another highlight to her off-court accolades when she was chosen as the team muse for the San Miguel Beermen during the PBA opening ceremony, further highlighting her crossover appeal between sports and entertainment.

Ever the entrepreneur, Daquis founded RAD Fitness Philippines in 2018, which now boasts five branches catering to a growing fitness community. By 2024, she expanded her reach overseas, opening Forn de Manila—the first Filipino bakery in Barcelona, Spain, reflecting her deep connection to heritage, food, and global community-building.

Whether as a court icon, media standout, or a trailblazing entrepreneur, Rachel Anne Daquis continues to inspire with her blend of athletic excellence, grace, and grit—proving that her legacy extends far beyond volleyball.