Import-spiced Superliga GP fires off Saturday

Twelve foreign players, led by Puerto Rico national team member Lynda Morales, spice things up as the 2015 Philippine Superliga Grand Prix fires off Saturday at Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.

The reinforcements—active club members who are in the FIVB (international federation) database—showed up yesterday at the press launch and vowed to do their best to help raise the level of sport in the country.

All six teams—defending champion Petron, Meralco, Cignal, Foton, Philips Gold and RC Cola—will have two imports each.

Petron debuts against Cignal today at 1 p.m. while Meralco battles Foton at 3 p.m.

Among the innovations the league will introduce is the video challenge patterned after tennis competitions. Starting in the second round, each team will have two challenges each per set. And if proven correct by the hawk eye system, coaches retain the two challenges.

“This has been in use by the FIVB since last year and we hope to use this to further elevate volleyball in the country,” said PSL president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

Morales, who will suit up for RC Cola, said she’ll bring her A-game to the tournament: “I’m sure we can give volleyball here a big boost. We are in the best of shapes.”

TV5 Sports head Chot Reyes said the network will “make sure your fantastic games are watched by the widest audience as possible through our free TV.” Marc Anthony Reyes