PVL: Fifi Sharma makes immediate impact for Akari in debut

Akari’s Fifi Sharma.–PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Akari rookie Fifi Sharma admitted it was intimidating to face her former teammates and La Salle seniors from F2 Logistics but her excitement to play her first Premier Volleyball League (PVL) helped her conquer first-game jitters.

“At first, it was daunting because they’re my seniors and also I know some of the people who are playing on the opposite side of the court,” said Sharma after delivering 13 points including five blocks in Akari’s 21-25, 25-20, 27-25, 19-25, 15-8 win over F2 Logistics on Tuesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“But as time went by, I just focused on the game, not so much on who I was playing against but more on the goal to win,” she added.

Sharma, who opted to forgo her remaining playing years with La Salle and turn pro with Akari, showed poise in her debut as she exchanged in-game celebrations with the Cargo Movers. 

But amid the pressure, the 22-year-old middle blocker stayed focused on her team’s goal this All-Filipino Conference.

Fifi Sharma.–PVL PHOTO

“For this first game, my mindset was actually to give my all–I mean, give my all in all the games, but this first game is especially important to me because I think this will set the tone for the whole conference kasi we’ve made our mark and we made our statement,” she said.

The former La Salle stalwart nailed the finishing touches in the game as she had a big block on Myla Pablo to reach match point, 14-8, before drilling the match-winning ace.

“I think I really like playing under pressure especially when I’m put in a position where I need to deliver,” she said. “My mindset was just focus, back to basics, breathe, stay in the present, don’t overthink things, just play your game, and that has always worked for me.”

After an impressive debut, Sharma vows to continue grinding for the Chargers as they hunt for their second win against PLDT on Thursday at FilOil EcoOil Centre.

“My prime motivation is to help the team. I want to give my all in practice and show up every day just so I can help my team,” she said.