BURNING DESIRE
Solar Spikers determined to make a good impression
‘We are not in a hurry, we take it one step at a time until we build a winning culture. That’s our goal’
Newcomer Capital1 Solar Energy is investing in hungry and determined players raring to prove that they can stand toe-to-toe with established stars in the Premier Volleyball League.
The Solar Spikers named their players on Thursday, a day before the league’s deadline for submission of participating teams’ lineup, composed of a good mix of youngbloods and veterans.
Former Far Eastern University star Heather Guino-o and Jannine Navarro spearhead the core of the Roger Gorayebcoached rookie club hoping to make a good impression in its maiden run in the season-opening All-Filipino Conference unwrapping on 20 February.
Gorayeb described the squad owned by sisters Milka and Mandy Romero as a hungry bunch with players looking to make a name for themselves. Some want to finally step into the spotlight after playing second fiddle in their former clubs.
“These players are hungry for playing time, so they have this great desire to win games. Watch out for them,” the multi-titled mentor who is making a comeback in the PVL after three years said.
Guino-o, who was instrumental in the Lady Tamaraws’ runner-up finish in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 80, saw limited action with Petro Gazz last year.
The outside hitter is playing for her seventh team in the local club scene. Guino-o was part of the powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers that ruled the 2019 Open conference.
Navarro, on the other hand, transferred to Capital1 after a brief stint with Nxled last conference.
The Solar spikers also tapped Arianne Layug, Jorelle Singh and Ja Lana for the extra offense.
Also in the team are Rovee Instrella, Renesa Melgar, Sydney Niegos, Lourdes Clemente, Shyra Umandal, Cathrina Dizon, Kath Villegas, May Macatuno, setter Jel Quizon, Rica Rivera and Bingle Landicho.
Five more players, including three veterans, will reinforce the Solar Spikers before the flourishing pro league begins.
The Romero sisters — coming from a sportsoriented family — are convinced their players will go out and play their level best each game given another opportunity to prove their worth.
“This will be a good opportunity for them to shine and be recognized so we are giving our all-out support to the team,” said Mandy, who heads the family-owned solar energy company.
“My sister and I are hoping we can grow together in support of PH sports, especially volleyball.”
Milka, for her part, acknowledges that the club is still in its infancy but expects the franchise to grow and develop into a legitimate contender soon.
“We are not in a hurry, we take it one step at a time until we build a winning culture. That’s our goal,” she said.
Capital1 is one of the two newest teams in the league as it takes over the spot left by the disbanded F2 Logistics.