Sta. Lucia faces sanction for pulling out of PNVF’s Champions League

Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors react after scoring a point. PVL MEDIA BUREAU

MANILA, Philippines—Sta. Lucia could face possible sanctions, including suspensions and fines, from both the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and the FIVB after pulling out of the Champions League that is set to start this month in Lipa City, Batangas.

The PNVF said in a statement that Sta. Lucia withdrew from the Champions League even after the October 29 draw.

This withdrawal from the competition would net the Lady Realtors with a P50,000 fine.

The national governing body also claimed that Lady Realtors refused to pay the International Transfer Certificate fee of US$1,500 required by FIVB for star player MJ Phillips, who currently plays under USA Volleyball.

“The Lady Realtors could face suspension for breaching domestic regulations and are bound to suffer the same when their case is elevated to the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB),” said the PNVF in a statement.

Phillips last played for Team Choco Mucho, one of the two Philippine teams in the AVC Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship.

Sta. Lucia, meanwhile, was drawn in Pool B of the Champions League with Chery Tiggo, Petro Gazz, and California Precision Sports.

The Champions League for men and women is set from November 20 to December 4 at the Aquamarine Gym in Lipa City.