Shakey’s V-League provincial squads out to impress

MANILA, Philippines–Boasting tested players, three provincial teams vie for upsets over the fancied Manila squads when the Shakey’s V-League First Conference unfolds Sunday at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Baguio’s St. Louis University, Cebu’s Southwestern University and Davao’s Lady Agilas expect to come in fresh against the favored teams led by the Ateneo Lady Eagles, who just wrapped up a historic but grueling UAAP title run.

“We expect these teams to provide a different kind of challenge and spring a surprise or two against the regular teams,” said Ricky Palou, president of league organizer Sports Vision.

The three provincial squads raised the field to a record 12 participants in the premier women’s volleyball tournament, which gets going with a 1 p.m. opening ceremony tomorrow.

Defending champion National University battles three-time NCAA titlist Perpetual Help at 4 p.m., right after crowd-favorite Ateneo clashes with Adamson at 2 p.m.

The SLU Navigators, former champions in the Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic League, will debut against Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) powerhouse SWU Lady Cobras at 2 p.m. on Tuesday.

The Lady Agilas will start their campaign against Far Eastern University on April 20.

“This is the first time that Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will be represented, thus making it a national tournament,” said Palou.

The 12 teams are divided into two groups in the eliminations, from where the top four will advance to the quarterfinals.