Superliga Invitational showcases young Thais

THAILAND, hotbed of Southeast Asian volleyball, is sending its young stars to clash with Filipino club players in the Philippine Superliga Invitational Conference.

Composed of players who saw action in the World U-23 and U-17 women’s championships, the EST Cola club of Thailand is set to arrive on April 4 ahead of the PSL Invitationals final round which starts April 7.

Sensational open hitter Chatchu-on Moksri will banner the Thai team on his return to the country after playing in the Asian U-23 Championships here last year.

Moksri is a member of the Thai national team along with Sasiporn Bundasak and Parinya Pankaew.

“These players are being groomed for the Thailand volleyball team because after this year’s FIVB and AVC events, most of their players will retire (from Thai national team),” said PSL president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

“This is a very good chance to expose our present crop of players to top-level competitions because they are very promising and eager to show their worth.”

Included in the team are World U-23 veterans Anisa Yotpinit (libero),  Wipawee Srithong (open hitter), Patchraporn Sittisad (open hitter) and Tichaya Boonlert (setter).

All  had international exposure and took part in the FIVB events aside from playing in the Thai pro league.

The Thai team will play a single-round FIVB Grand Prix-style tournament against RC Cola-Army, Petron and F2 Logistics.