MANILA – With three promising players added to its roster, Capital1 is hoping to do well in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference which unfolds on July 16 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Solar Spikers, picking second overall in the rookie draft, chose outside hitters Leila Cruz and Jenya Torres, and libero Roma Mae Doromal last Monday.
The trio will make their debut against the Akari Chargers on July 18.
“I’m thrilled because we got the players we wanted. They will significantly help the team, especially in positions where we have been slightly weak,” said coach Roger Gorayeb in a Thursday news release.
The 5-foot-10 Cruz, who will reinforce the team’s frontline alongside Rovie Instrella and Sydney Niegos, was selected in the first round. Doromal was chosen in the second round, and Torres in the third round.
“I was really looking for height because they are opposite spikers. Now we have blockers for the opposing outside hitters,” Gorayab said about the team’s height advantage, adding that he also wanted to enhance the team’s defense.
“We planned to get them, including the libero, because we only have two liberos. I think Doromal will help our defense and fill the gap in that spot,” he said.
Doromal, who played for Ateneo, will join Bingle Landicho and Rica Rivera, last year’s liberos, as the Solar Spikers seek to improve on their showing in the recent All-Filipino Conference, where they won only one game in 11 outings.
Meanwhile, team co-owner Mandy Romero said they are very happy to get their “wish list.”
“Before the draft, we targeted these three players. We believe their talent and grit align with the team’s thrust, goals and the future we’re building,” he said.
“It will be an exciting road ahead for the team,” Romero said, noting that the three rookies are important to the Solar Spikers’ long-term vision and goals.
The coaching staff and management believe that with the new recruits, Capital1 will be ready to face any challenge. (PNA)
