Dzakovic gets away with slap on the wrist

Screengrab of video showing Danijela Dzakovic hitting her teammate Jewelle Bermillo

The Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas Inc., was ready to impose a severe punishment on Montenegrin import Danijela Dzakovic for hitting BaliPure teammate Jewelle Bermillo during their game against Creamline Saturday night.

LVPI director Peter Cayco said they have the power to penalize Dzakovic heavily—like bans on players—as his agency facilitates the International Transfer Certificates for every foreign player in the country.

But he said the LVPI will go by the decision of the Premier Volleyball League which just issued a reprimand on Dzakovic.

No suspension or ban was mentioned in the PVL statement issued by top official Ricky Palou.

“We invite these imports to spice up the tournament, primarily for the fans, and at the same time share their expertise with the local players,” said Palou. “Conversely, we expect them to play and be at their best, game-wise and character-wise.”

However, Palou said a repetition of such act “will be dealt with more severely.”

Dzakovic hitting Bermillo at the back of the head—after a botched play—was unheard of in Philippine volleyball, which is enjoying a rise in popularity the past decade.

The clip went viral and got negative comments from netizens, including some players themselves.

Dzakovic, who has reportedly left the country Sunday morning, approached Bermillo after the incident and apologized profusely.

She said she was just venting her frustration as she failed to lead BaliPure to a win in 10 matches in the conference.

Bermillo has since accepted her apology and BaliPure coach Rommel Abella said the issue has already been settled.