Meet BaliPure imports Alexis Mathews and Janisa Johnson

MANILA, Philippines – BaliPure National University’s American reinforcements, Alexis Mathews and Janisa Johnson, both graduated from college in 2013. After several years playing the pro volleyball loop around the world, they now find themselves in the Philippines. In Mathews’ case, this is her second tour of duty in the country having most recently played for Cignal in the PSL.

Now for Mathews, a 6’3” middle hitter, and Johnson, a wing spiker, they both find it interesting that they are in a semi-pro league with a few collegiate and a lot of high school students with BaliPure’s NU contingent.

“It’s a very young team but with great attitudes with great potential right there,” reflected Mathews before their Premier Volleyball League opener against Iriga. “Even in the highest levels, people still need experience. Nevertheless, it should be interesting because the youngsters will be looking up to me and Janisa to lead them.”

For Johnson, who arrived the night before the game from France where she helped Beziers win the French volleyball championship, this is another opportunity to not only continue to play the game she loves but to help her younger teammates.

“Of course, we are here to guide them, but we are going to try and even win a championship, if that is possible,” said Johnson.

For Johnson, a Los Angeles native, coming over to the Philippines also hinged on the advice of Crystal Rivers. For fans of BaliPure and of Philippine volleyball, Rivers’ name will be familiar after the star guided Pocari Sweat to a championship during the first Premier Volleyball League season.

Johnson and Rivers were teammates with Beziers in France and the duo helped the Angels, as the club is nicknamed, win the French Cup.

“The experience there was sweet because we got to win the French Cup over our rivals. And while I was there, I told Crystal about the offer in the Philippines and she advised me to take it. ‘It’s great there except it’s hot,’ she said. So I am here,” added Johnson.

When one looks at Johnson’s height (she stands 5’8”), it might not seem ideal for a wing spiker. Rest assured, Johnson is a high leaper. The former Long Beach State 49ers grins.

“I’ll just let my play do the talking,” she jokingly dismisses.

Speaking of play, both Johnson and Mathews didn’t really think of a career playing pro volleyball overseas.

“I didn’t know I could play volleyball and get paid much less go overseas,” recalled Mathews. “When the opportunity came, I took it.”

Johnson concurred. “The challenge is adjusting to different cultures, languages, time zones, food, and styles of play. I think it takes a great attitude to put it all together because it can work for you. I am very happy with what I am doing right now. Besides, I never thought in my life, I’d get to go places. And I did. I mean, I went to Finland and France! And now, I’m in the Philippines.”

“Playing international volleyball opens your eyes, heart, and mind to the world,” added Mathews, who played for Michigan State in the United States. “You get to do something you love and you get to travel and make some money. It’s not so bad. Now if you win a championship… that’s great. I hope we can do this over at BaliPure.”