Fans day kicks off Shakey’s V-League

THERE won’t be a shortage of star power when the Shakey’s V-League and the Spikers’ Turf mark its opening today by devoting an entire afternoon of fun and games for its fans at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The 200 players comprising the eight team roster in the V-League and the six squads in Spikers’ Turf will be around for the elaborate opening rites.

Bali Pure’s Alyssa Valdez, the sport’s biggest star who has won three Most Valuable Player awards in the UAAP and two in the V-League, will lead the oath of sportsmanship before the league turns the program into a virtual fans’ day.

Pocari Sweat’s Michele Gumabao and Melissa Gohing and National U’s Jaja Santiago will also attend the traditional parade of eight teams starting at 12 noon.

The event will be spiced up by a series of fun games among the players.

The games will unfold on May 28.

Reinforced Conference champion Cignal TV, Inc. will vie in the second Spikers’ Turf season, an all-men league similar to the V-League, which also kicks off on May 28.

“We’re excited to open our 13th season and we thank everyone for the all-out support through the years,” said Ricky Palou, president of the organizing Sports Vision.

Led by playing coach Charo Soriano, Bali Pure looks formidable with a team led by Valdez and reigning NCAA MVP Grethcel Soltones.

Janine Marciano and Alyssa Eroa are also in the team along with Ateneo alumni Amy Ahomiro, Dzi Gervacio, Bea Tan, Mary Mae Tajima and Denden Lazaro.

Pocari is also expected to contend with a squad bannered by Gumabao and Gohing and backstopped by Myla Pablo, Elaine Kasilag and Gyselle Sy.

Santiago spearheads an NU team that include Jorelle Singh, Aiko Urdas and rookie Raissa Sato