THE PVL unveils its eighth season today with a pair of exciting matches featuring seasoned teams raring to flaunt their strength and newcomers looking to impress at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
Petro Gazz, a two-time Reinforced Conference champion, tangles with Strong Group at 4 p.m. with the Angels aiming to build on their recent triumph in the Champions’ League.
Myla Pablo and MJ Phillips’ return, along with the addition of Fil-Am hitter Brooke Van Sickle, fortifies the Angels’ roster, making them formidable contenders against the Strong Group Athletics, led by skipper Dolly Verzosa and veteran setter Vira Gillema.
Strong Group took over the Gerflor franchise while the Capital1 Solar Spikers filled in the spot left by F2 Logistics.
“For me, I just want to be as consistent as possible. I think that will hopefully be my role. I want to be there for my teammates,” said Van Sickle, who joined the team last month.
“They have my back; I want to be able to have their backs and the chemistry that we’re already building, and the relationships that we’re building,” she added.
Chery Tiggo, the 2021 Open Conference champion, has also bolstered its lineup with key acquisitions, including former F2 Logistics stalwarts Ara Galang and Aby Maraño, who with mainstays Mylene Paat, Shaya Adorador, Cess Robles and sisters EJ and Eya Laure are expected to impose their power and class against the Capital1 Solar Spikers in their 6 p.m. clash.
But the Capital1 Solar Spikers are determined under multi-titled coach Roger Gorayeb. The team, owned by sisters Mandy and Milka Romero, features a blend of experienced players and rising stars ready for the challenge.
“I do not promise na malaking-malaki kaagad. We’ll do it slowly. Basta lang ayokong magsalita ng tapos. They took me in based on my experience, yung track record ko, gagamitin ko yun,” said Gorayeb.
