5 Thais reinforce V-League sides

SOUTHEAST Asian powerhouse Thailand will be well represented in the Shakey’s V-League First Conference with five players reinforcing teams in the 10-team field.

Former Thai national team captain Patcharee Sangmuang, a veteran of the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Senior Championships and the FIVB World Grand Prix, has been linked to play for either Letran or Far Eastern University.

The other Thai imports in the field are veterans Jaroensri Bualee (San Sebastian), Lithawat Kesinee (Ateneo), Areerat Sanorseang (FEU or Letran), and Pornpimol Kunbang of the returning multi-titled University of Santo Tomas.

“The presence of Thai players is good for us in terms of experience,” said Moying Martelino, chair of the organizing Sports Vision. “Besides, Thailand is known for its good volleyball program.”

Martelino said the opening conference of the country’s premier volleyball league on April 24 could serve as a launch pad for a three-conference season capped by an invitational tournament featuring commercial teams.

“We’re likely to do that,” Martelino said at the PSA Forum presented by Smart, Pagcor and Shakey’s at Shakey’s UN Avenue in Manila.

Martelino is eyeing the national teams of Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Malaysia for the Invitational. The Philippines will be represented by the national team or a V-League selection.