Angels-Athletics clash opens PVL AFC
THE Premier Volleyball League unveils its eighth season Tuesday, February 20, 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 City.
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.
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.
Team captain Jorelle Singh, Des Clemente, Heather Guino-o, Jannine Navarro, Arianne Layug and Janeca Lana will spearhead Capital1’s bid with support to come from Rovee Instrella, Renesa Melgar, Kath Villegas, Shyra Umandal, Lourdes Clemente and Sydney Niegos.
“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 Romero.
The Romeros are aware of the challenging task ahead but they are ready to go through the process.
“We are not in a hurry, we take it one step at a time until we build a winning culture. That’s our goal,” said Milka Romero.