Gerflor Defenders, the newest team in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), is hoping to make a strong impact in their first foray into the tournament, proving that they are not lacking in experience in the pro scene despite being newcomers.
The team is no longer a stranger to professional leagues, having participated in tournaments like the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Champions League, which helped them level up and enter the PVL.
Gerflor Team Manager Jordan Tolentino expressed his excitement to finally be a part of the PVL.
“We have organized and joined several leagues that helped us prepare for the PVL, which we believe is the most prestigious league in the country. Being a part of the PVL is already an honor and an accomplishment for our volleyball club,” Tolentino said.
To solidify their goal, the Gerflor Defenders tapped veteran head coach Edgar Barroga, former Cignal head coach and currently the mentor of the National University Nazareth School’s boys’ volleyball squad.
Barroga told One Sports’ “The Game” that the team is showing eagerness and a strong desire to prove that they belong in the premier league.
“Makikita mo sa kanila ‘yung eagerness, kung gaano sila gumalaw sa loob ng court. Excited kami na mai-apply namin sa tunay na laro ‘yung mga ginagawa naming,” he stated.
Veteran playmakers Fhen Emnas and Ivy Perez are tasked with leading the team, backed up by former HD Spikers players Ranya Musa and Rap Aguilar, and the rest of the team namely Mina Aganon, Janine Navarro, Shannen Palec, Julia Angeles, Pia Sarmiento, Mary Esguerra, Andrea Marzan, AJ Jingco, Alyssa Bertolano, and Ethan Arce.
The neophyte squad will face the defending champion Creamline, Chery Tiggo, PLDT, and Akari in Pool A of the two-group tournament.
They will get a baptism of PVL fire as they drew a solid Creamline side when they make their debut on June 29.
“Our main goal is to showcase not only the talents of our players but also to serve as an inspiration to every student-athlete and former pro. We want to show that opportunities will always be there as long as they work hard to reach their dreams and ambitions,” Tolentino added.
Thumbnail photo courtesy of PVL
