Offense, defense, and strategy all covered as the likes of Kim Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, Kim Fajardo, Savannah Davison, and newly hailed skipper Kath Arado aim to win 1st first PVL title
With three former MVPs joining forces, alongside a Filipino-Canadian scoring sensation in her sophomore year, and a roster of dependable veterans, anticipate a significantly stronger PLDT High Speed Hitters team at the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference. As the league kicks off on February 20, all eyes are on the volleyball squad backed by PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, set to compete against 11 other participants, igniting the biggest volleyball spectacle in the Philippines this 2024.
Leading the charge are the formidable trio of Kianna Dy (UAAP Season 78 Finals MVP, 2021 PNVF Champions League MVP and Best Opposite Hitter), Majoy Baron (UAAP Season 79 MVP, 2023 PVL Invitational Conference 1st Best Middle Blocker), and Kim Fajardo (3-time UAAP Best Setter, UAAP Beach Volleyball MVP, 6-time Philippine Super Liga Best Setter).
Having previously represented the national team, these stars rose to prominence during their collegiate careers with the De La Salle University Lady Spikers, boasting three UAAP gold medals each, along with numerous silver finishes and individual accolades.
Emerging as the top scorer in her rookie season during the last conference, Savannah Davison is poised to make her mark on the court once again. The Filipino-Canadian athlete showcased her prowess by tallying 202 points through 173 attacks, 22 blocks, and seven service aces by the end of the eliminations. Davison brings with her experience from competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 and national competitions in the US, while also obtaining a biochemistry degree from New Mexico State University and an MBA from the University of Oklahoma Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business.
Meanwhile, three-time PVL Best Libero Kath Arado assumes the role of team captain, leading the charge in the backcourt with her precision and agility. With her impressive track record as a multi-awarded UAAP libero, she guides a roster of seasoned veterans and former national team players, including 2022 PVL Invitational Conference Best Middle Blockers Mika Reyes and Dell Palomata, UAAP champions Rhea Dimaculangan and Jules Samonte, alongside Erika Santos, Fiola Ceballos, Jessey de Leon, Jovelyn Prado, Rachel Austero, Iza Viray, and Far Eastern University standouts Kiesha Bedonia and Sheila Kiseo.
Jude Turcuato, Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart, expressed excitement for the volleyball action set to resume in February, reaffirming their unwavering support for the PLDT High Speed Hitters in the new season. Additionally, Turcuato hopes to provide an even more thrilling experience for fans attending the games, as they rally behind this powerhouse team.
The coaching staff, led by PVL champion coaches Rald Ricafort and Arnold Laniog, alongside Manolo Refugia, Mike Santos, and Ervin Peralta, is poised to steer the team to success. Paolo Escaño has been tasked with overseeing the team’s strength and conditioning regimen.
MVPs meet the MVP
Just days before the commencement of the new season, the PLDT High Speed Hitters paid a visit to the PLDT headquarters in Makati City for a courtesy call with PLDT President/CEO, Manny Pangilinan.
“Our aim is to see a significant number of Filipino volleyball athletes representing us in international competitions—and perhaps even the Olympics. We remain committed to collaborating with partner leagues and organizations to facilitate this goal. Naturally, it all starts with our team. They bring us immense pride, and we trust they will continue to give their all on the court,” Pangilinan remarked.
During their visit, the team also had the opportunity to engage, interact, and participate in games with PLDT and Smart employees, further promoting the excitement surrounding the upcoming season.
Volleyball fans can follow the journey of PLDT High Speed Hitters through Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.
