JL from AHOF is trending again, and this time, it’s his hidden athletic past that’s spiking everyone’s excitement. In the freshly dropped teaser for MBC’s upcoming variety show Idol School Camp, the Filipino powerhouse born Jay Lawrence Gaspar casually drops a bombshell: before conquering K-pop stages, he was a serious volleyball talent who represented at the national level and dominated in school competitions.
Now 22, JL (born April 21, 2004, in Muntinlupa City) has always been known for his explosive energy. As the youngest member of P-pop group PLUUS, where he debuted in March 2023 and earned the nickname “Nation’s Giant Center,” he balanced academics at the top of his class with dance training and sports. “I topped my classes before fully committing to dance,” he shares in the teaser, flashing that signature warm smile that makes fans melt. But it’s the footage of his thunderous jumps nearning him “Spiker JL” chants that left fellow AHOF members Woongki and Chihen (and viewers) in absolute shock. The genuine laughter and wide-eyed reactions feel refreshingly real in a world of polished idol content.
From Court to Center Stage
JL’s journey embodies that classic underdog-to-star arc so many of us root for. A former backup dancer for artists like PSY and AC Bonifacio, he trained rigorously before shining on Universe League in 2025. Securing first place with over 3.1 million votes as the only Filipino contestant, he helped form the nine-member global group AHOF (All-Time Hall of Famer) under F&F Entertainment. Their debut EP Who We Are dropped in July 2025, and the boys have been unstoppable since.
K-pop analyst notes, “JL’s athletic background isn’t just trivia it translates directly to stage presence. That vertical leap and core strength? It’s why his performances feel so dynamic and powerful. Versatile idols like him are the future of the industry.”
Double Treat Coming July 8
The timing couldn’t be better. Idol School Camp, featuring AHOF alongside CLOSE YOUR EYES, IDNTT, and FLAREU, premieres July 8 on MBC M (with episodes also on Muniverse YouTube). The same day, AHOF drops their highly anticipated third mini-album Run To You at 6PM KST perfect summer vibes with tracks promising growth, energy, and heartfelt connection.
As a longtime fan who followed JL from PLUUS days, seeing him open up about his roots hits different. It reminds us idols are multifaceted humans with rich stories beyond the spotlight. Whether spiking volleyballs or hitting high notes, JL continues proving he’s built for greatness.
Mark your calendars, FOHA this summer is about to get even more exciting. Who else is ready to cheer for Spiker JL?
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