VOLLEYBALL fans are expected to have their fill in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference that will be held for six months starting Nov. 9.
The league’s decision to hold the opening conference of the 2024-2025 season for six months is part of its alignment with the FIVB calendar, which gives players and teams more time to prepare for the grueling battle ahead.
This means the action will end in May next year, after which players can suit up for the national team in FIVB-sanctioned competitions.
PVL president Ricky Palou and Asian Volleyball Confederation and Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara looked forward to the competition that will feature 12 teams.
“I’d like to congratulate the PVL for the All-Filipino Conference. I think this is a big decision for the PVL to have a six-month conference. This is the correct way. The PVL made the correct decision because all club seasons are six months. It starts in October and ends in May. Hindi na ‘yung putol putol because this should give more playing time for the players,” Suzara said in a press conference yesterday at the Novotel Manila in Cubao, Quezon City.
“The alignment of our schedule with the international FIVB calendar is an exciting development for Philippine volleyball,” said PVL Control Committee Chairman and Commissioner Sherwin Malonzo. “This synchronization not only elevates the standard of our league but also brings more excitement to our fans.”
The field is led by Grand Slam champion Creamline, which goes into the season as the team to beat.
With their roster mostly intact, the Cool Smashers are expected to continue setting the bar high.
But several teams have made significant roster changes, aiming to close the gap and mount a formidable challenge.
“With the depth of talent in the league, fans can look forward to a truly competitive conference,” said Palou. “This season, we’ve seen teams making strategic moves to enhance their rosters, which should make for some exciting matchups and surprises along the way.”
Continuity has been the mantra for teams like Cignal, Petro Gazz, Choco Mucho, PLDT, and Akari, while Chery Tiggo is navigating a transition period.
Capital1, Nxled, Zus Coffee, Galeries, and Farm Fresh are all set to make their mark and leave a lasting impression.
The season will kick off with a thrilling main game at 6:30 p.m., featuring last All-Filipino Conference finalist Choco Mucho looking to turn the page against the resilient Petro Gazz Angels.
Earlier in the day, at 4 p.m., Akari will take on Galeries Tower, with both teams eager to make a strong statement as they pursue championship aspirations.
After the single round-robin preliminaries, teams will be ranked from 1 to 12 according to the FIVB Classification system.
The qualifying round will pair teams based on their final rankings, leading to a dynamic playoff structure where only the best will advance.
Cignal TV is set to bring the entire season to fans, ensuring every thrilling moment is captured and broadcast.
