Owa Retamar headed to Europe with Ordu Sports Club

MANILA, Philippines — Owa Retamar becomes the first Filipino to play in the 2026–27 CEV Volleyball Challenge Cup, also known as the European Cup, joining Azerbaijan-based team Ordu Sports Club.

The Alas Pilipinas setter on Thursday was welcomed by Ordu Sports Club, as he is set to join the team on August 11.

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“This is a dream come true and a challenge that I’m truly excited to embrace,” said Retamar.

“Playing in Europe has always been one of my aspirations because it allows me to compete against some of the best players in the world and continue growing as an athlete. While I may be wearing the colors of Ordu Sports Club, I know that I will still be carrying the Philippines with me on another playing field.”

“ Every match is an opportunity to show the world what Filipino volleyball players are capable of, and I hope this journey inspires more young athletes to dream bigger and believe that opportunities beyond Asia are possible,” he added.

VP Global Management, Retamar’s agency, said that discussions with Ordu Sports Club had been ongoing for several months, reflecting the club’s confidence in Retamar’s ability to lead its offense as one of the team’s primary playmakers.

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“For a setter, joining the team ahead of the season is extremely important. Building chemistry with teammates cannot be rushed, and Joshua’s early arrival will allow him to fully integrate into the team’s system before official competitions begin,” VP Global Management wrote.

Ordu Sports Club expressed its confidence in the young Filipino setter, who led Visakha VC to a runner-up finish in the Techo Volleyball Cambodia League last month and a bronze in his first stint with the club in the 4th Sar Kheng Cup early this year.

“In ORDU VK’s talented roster, Joshua Retamar’s role is expected to attract special attention. Surrounded by experienced players, the young setter will continue to develop while bringing speed, determination, and a winning mentality to the team,” the team wrote

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“This transfer is not only for the club’s present ambitions but is also a strategic investment in its future. We believe your energy, volleyball intelligence, and courageous decision-making will play a vital role in our team’s future success.”

Retamar is a decorated setter in the country, shining in the FIVB World Championship last year and leading Alas back to the podium with a bronze in the Southeast Asian Games.

In his rookie year for the men’s national volleyball team, Retamar was the main playmaker of the historic silver medal team in the 2019 SEA Games. He is also a two-time UAAP champion, Finals MVP, and Best Setter out of National University.