PVL: Eager to finally contribute for PLDT, Jovielyn Prado shrugs off pain

PLDT’s Jovielyn Prado. –PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — After missing the past seven games due injury, Jovielyn Prado made an immediate impact in her first game back for PLDT, helping the team earn its second win in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference semifinal round.

Eager to deliver for the High Speed Hitters after suffering a left ankle sprain before the midseason conference, the Arellano standout gave her all when she finally entered the court in PLDT’s 15-25, 25-13, 25-23, 25-23 victory over  Cignal on Thursday at Ynares Center in Antipolo.

“I still feel pain in my foot but when my number was called I had to step up. I just endured the pain and played,” said Prado in Filipino after chipping in nine points, including the clutch spikes in the third and fourth set, and helping libero Kath Arado in defending their floor with 21 digs.

The former NCAA Finals MVP bared she couldn’t practice when she got injured leading to her seven-game absence.

That’s why she wanted to take advantage when PLDT coach George Pascua called her number and subbed her in for starter Fiola Ceballos.

“After missing several games, I really gave my all. I kept on fighting whatever happens,” Prado said. “I also enjoyed the game even though we were so focused (against Cignal).”

Prado’s comeback is perfect timing for PLDT as it is set to face Creamline, led by the trio of Tots Carlos, Alyssa Valdez, and Jema Galanza, on Saturday in Antipolo, before facing the foreign teams, Kobe Shinwa University of Japan and KingWhale Taipei next week.