Bích Tuyền has taken on a new role with the Ninh Bình women's volleyball team.

Outside hitter Nguyễn Thị Bích Tuyền’s involvement in the second stage of the 2025 National Volleyball Championship is still undecided.

The Ninh Bình women's volleyball club is facing a difficult dilemma regarding Nguyễn Thị Bích Tuyền ahead of the second phase of the 2025 National Volleyball Championship. Rumors that the team might rest their top outside hitter or even reassign her to a support role have stirred public debate.

According to regulations, the official list of 14 athletes must be finalized on October 6, when Ninh Bình submits their registration to the Vietnam Volleyball Federation. Until then, Bích Tuyền’s participation remains uncertain. The Ninh Bình coaching staff is carefully weighing options, as every decision could significantly impact the team’s performance and the tournament’s reputation.

In fact, Bích Tuyền is fully eligible to compete and has not violated any federation rules. However, many suggest the 25-year-old hitter should take a break due to psychological pressure. The situation has become more complicated following the suspension of Đặng Thị Hồng by the International Volleyball Federation. Some teams have expressed dissatisfaction if Ninh Bình continues to field a player involved in controversy like Bích Tuyền.

During the first phase, Bích Tuyền was a key player, participating in all five matches and playing a major role in Ninh Bình’s undefeated run, leading the women’s group. Her superior strength was seen as the key factor that allowed the Hoa Lư team to dominate opponents. However, this significant advantage caused some teams to feel disadvantaged in the championship race.

If Bích Tuyền does not play, her chances of participating in the 33rd SEA Games will also be affected. The National Championship is an important basis for head coach Nguyễn Tuấn Kiệt to select players for the national team. Having a player who does not compete for her club but is still called up to the national team could lead to controversy and set a negative precedent.