Courtesy: pvl.ph
THE Premier Volleyball League launches its Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig, featuring an exciting line-up of international imports eager to showcase their skills, along with a promising batch of rookies looking to make their mark.
While established stars will remain central to each team’s campaign in this mid-season tournament organized by Sports Vision, the spotlight will be on the new reinforcements and eager local first-timers ready to embrace the challenge.
An explosive triple-header sets the stage, headlined by a 6 p.m. clash between league heavyweights Creamline and PLDT. Galeries Tower and Nxled kick off hostilities at 2 p.m., followed by the Chery Tiggo-Farm Fresh showdown at 4 p.m.
The offseason saw surprising player movements in both the Creamline and PLDT camps, heightening anticipation for the return of the import-laden conference last held in 2022.
The Cool Smashers, fresh from their All-Filipino Conference victory, will be without star outside hitter Jema Galanza due to her commitment to Alas Pilipinas. However, American import Erica Staunton and Fil-Canadian libero Aleiah Torres are expected to bolster the team’s offense and defense, respectively.
Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses praised the seamless integration of Staunton, a former player for Northeastern University and the University of Georgia, into the Rebisco-backed squad’s system.
“We made some adjustments. It was a tough time, we just had to import some things, and it all came down to the results of the game,” said Meneses.
On the other side, the High Speed Hitters welcome back middle blocker Mika Reyes, who will fill the void left by Dell Palomata, now also committed to Alas Pilipinas. Rookie setter Angge Alcantara is set to back up Kim Fajardo, stepping in for Rhea Dimaculangan, who will miss the tournament due to her honeymoon, as reported by pvl.ph
“We’re playing in one of the middle lock positions. National team player Dell was the only middle blocker in the team after Mika suffered an injury,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort.
The Highrisers will feature Brazilian import Monique Helena and promising rookies Julia Coronel, Jewel Encarnacion, Dodee Batindaan and Daniyan Aying, while the Chameleons, yet to announce their import, will rely on Lycha Ebon and May Luna.
In another highlight, Khat Bell makes her official comeback on a Philippine court for the Crossovers, who are seeking redemption against the Foxies. Farm Fresh will be led by Colombian Yeny Murillo and rookies Maicah Larroza and Pierre Abellana.
