PLDT High Speed Hitters Ready for First PVL Finals After Strong Season Comeback

After coming close but missing the podium in previous Premiere Volleyball League (PVL) conferences, the PLDT High Speed Hitters are finally set to compete for their first-ever PVL championship.

The team faces off against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers this Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, marking a major milestone in their volleyball journey.

Backed by the support of Manuel V. Pangilinan, the High Speed Hitters have built significant momentum throughout the PVL off-season conference. They finished undefeated, culminating in a thrilling five-set semifinal victory against the Creamline Cool Smashers, securing their place in the finals. This achievement highlights more than just wins, it validates the team’s strategic off-season roster adjustments and game plan.

Head coach Rald Ricafort’s masterful off-season strategy combined experienced players with emerging talent, creating a balanced and formidable squad. Fans are excited to see opposite spiker Kim Kianna Dy return to peak form after recovering from a knee injury that kept her out for 559 days. The team also benefits from the strong presence of La Salle alumnae Kim Fajardo, Mika Reyes, and Majoy Baron, who bring championship experience and leadership. Rising stars Kiesha Bedonia and Jovy Prado, both fully recovered from previous injuries, add depth and versatility. Libero and team captain Kath Arado continues to anchor the defense with exceptional floor coverage.

Ricafort emphasized patience and team development during a season that saw injuries and roster changes. “We focused on utilizing the players we had and developing our younger players while giving opportunities to role players. Now, the team is healthy and complete. Their conditioning has been crucial with our back-to-back game schedule,” he said. He also credited the players’ maturity for executing the team’s system effectively.

The High Speed Hitters currently lead the PVL in blocking, with Baron, Reyes, Bedonia, and Dy all ranking in the top ten blockers. Arado is on track to claim awards for best receiver and best digger. Bedonia has also emerged as the league’s second-best server, delivering key performances when it matters most.

“The younger players raise the level of competition in training, and the veterans provide steady leadership,” Ricafort added. “Our players are motivated and committed, which makes working with them a smooth experience.”

Despite setbacks in the 2024 PVL Reinforced and All-Filipino Conferences, including a semifinal loss to Akari Chargers and a fifth-place finish, the team’s resilience and strong “Pusong PLDT” spirit, a blend of heart, grit, and determination, have been key to their growth and success.

Now preparing for their biggest match in years, the PLDT High Speed Hitters are ready to give their all in pursuit of the championship. Their journey is a proud moment for PLDT Home, a leading internet and digital services provider committed to enhancing Filipino sports and entertainment experiences.

“Every conference, we aim to compete and win, regardless of our lineup. Winning is always our goal,” Ricafort said.

Cheer on the PLDT High Speed Hitters in their historic PVL finals appearance this Sunday, August 17, at 6:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena. Follow their championship journey on their official Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages.