Alyssa Valdez goes for a hit vs Jovelyn Gonzaga. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Already solid with two foreign players and a motley crew of reliable power hitters, PLDT Home Ultera has become even more formidable with volleyball phenom Alyssa Valdez back in harness.
“She (Valdez) told me she’ll play,” said PLDT coach Roger Gorayeb as the Ultra Fast Hitters brace for a classic championship duel in the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference with the unbeaten Philippine Army Lady Troopers beginning Saturday.
The Ateneo ace spiker, who also happens to be the reigning Open and Collegiate Conference MVP in the league, skipped the entire elimination round and semifinals after playing for the Lady Eagles in a beach volley tournament.
She reportedly requested for a vacation to heal a minor back injury.
American imports Victoria Hurtt and Sareea Freeman, both of them former US NCAA Division I standouts, have been signed up to boost PLDT’s campaign.
Valdez is also tipped to form a strong partnership with former league MVP Aiza Pontillas and Janine Mercado.
The Ultra Fast Hitters made it to the finals after a lopsided 25-11, 25-17, 25-17 win over University of the Philippines while the Lady Troopers sank Philippine Navy 25-16, 25-10, 25-22, in the other semifinal clash.
“Alyssa’s presence means more attacking options for us,” said Gorayeb. “Yes, we’re taller. But as a team, they (Lady Troopers) are more experienced.”
Jocelyn Gonzaga, Aby Marano, Honey Royse Tubino, Mary Remy Palma, Mary Jean Balse-Pabayo, Michelle Carolino and setter Tina Salak form the assault team from Philippine Army.