PLDT High Speed Hitters’ new setter Kim Fajardo. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Kim Fajardo debuted in style for PLDT, dishing out 11 excellent sets in their dominant 25-22, 25-6, 25-9, win over Galeries in the 2024 PVL All-FIlipino Conference on Thursday at FilOil EcoOil Centre on San Juan.
Getting out of her comfort zone may be a challenging task but the veteran setter believes her transition has been easier because of coach Rald Ricafort and the High Speed Hitters.
“It was easy for me because of the guidance of my coaches and teammates. I’m happy because we got a good result on our first game but we still have a lot to polish,” said Fajardo, who also scored two points.
SCHEDULE: PVL All-Filipino Conference 2024
“It’s my first time going out of my comfort zone. So I was nervous at first but coach Rald made everything easier and the players like ate Rhea (Dimaculangan) because we play the same position.”
PLDT coach Rald Ricafort, Kim Fajardo, and Savannah Davison on their first win. #PVL2024 | @LanceAgcaoilINQpic.twitter.com/OEh35ck7bt
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) February 22, 2024
Savannah Davison, who erupted for 19 points on top of nine digs and eight excellent receptions, marveled at Fajardo’s brilliant playmaking and leadership.
“I think having her smarts is a really big thing that we take advantage of. Her being a setter, her being offensive (minded) is one thing, but her talking to everyone and telling us what to do and what to run is a really good sign of leadership on the court,” said the Filipino-Canadian spiker.
READ: PVL: Kim Fajardo eager to tackle new challenges with PLDT
Fajardo, who transferred to PLDT after F2 Logistics’ disbandment, said she just maximized the advantage of having Davison, who emerged as last season’s top scorer.
“It’s an advantage to have Savi. I’m confident with my sets because whatever kind of set she gets, she always finds a way to score a point,” she said.
The former La Salle star can’t wait to have a healthy line-up as Kianna Dy, Jovy Prado, and Mika Reyes continue to recover but she vows to make the most of what they have for now.
“We’re excited to have them back in training and games. But for me, I have to focus on whose available right now. That’s the goal,” said Fajardo.
PLDT eyes its second win against Nxled on Tuesday next week at Philsports Arena.