Expect a stronger Iloilo team in the Batang Pinoy National Finals this year.
The Iloilo City girls’ volleyball squad is undergoing rigid training as part of their preparations for the 2019 edition of the annual sporting events in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
The national finals will start from August 25-31. For head coach Bandoi Montelibano, they are doing everyday stamina and endurance development as they face tougher competitors, including Negros volleybelles.
“Our goal is to capture at least a third place finish. We expect strong teams in the league but we are doing our best to snatch the medal and bring honor to the Ilonggo community,” he added.
The Iloilo City-based team will be reinforced by Athea Aposaga, Vanessa Marie Diaz, Keiara Almirante, Dea Jane Canaya, Marianne Grace Calapaan, Pau Sampiano, Rovy Ann Amuan, Mary Flores, Lara Andrea, Alyanna Kaye Detablan, and Robielle Silla.
The team is expected to field 189 athletes and 63 coaches to represent in the week-long competition.
Meanwhile, Negros fans will be treated with entertaining volleyball bonanza as the 2019 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference is expected to invade Bacolod City on October 13.
The match will be held at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) gym and features Choco Mucho Flying Titans playing the PacificTown-Army Lady Troopers at 4 p.m. while the Creamline Cool Smashers clash against Motolite Power Builders at 6 p.m.
Guimaras spiker Jovelyn Gonzaga banners PacificTown-Army, along with Bacolodnon setter Ma. Arielle Estrañero of the Motolite Power Builders.
Bacolod Tay Tung High School will also play USLS in an exhibition at 1:30 p.m. This is the second time the PVL will see action in a regular match in Western Visayas.
To recall, PVL Reinforced Conference also featured thrilling clash between the Cool Smashers and BanKo Perlas Spikers in Iloilo City with University of San Agustin as the host school.IMT
