The Premier Volleyball League is kicking off its Reinforced Conference on Oct. 7 with the country still buzzing from the just concluded FIVB Men’s World Championship where the Philippines showcased its growing volleyball prowess on the global stage.
Eight of the 12 PVL teams including “On Tour” and Invitational champion PLDT have acquired imports in preparation for the tourney.
The High Speed Hitters have enlisted 33-year-old Russian Anastasia Bavykina as early as two weeks ago. Bavykina has been blending well with the team that should be spearheaded by Savi Davison.
“She fits well into the team and should provide stability and experience,” said PLDT manager Bajjie del Rosario of the outside hitter who last suited up for Yenisey Krasnoyarsk back home in Russia.
League powerhouse Creamline was actually the first to tab an import in American spiker Courtney Schwan, who came in a week ahead of Bavykina.
The 29-year-old Schwan was from Auburn, Washington and came off a triumphant stint with the Orlando Valkyries in the Major League Volleyball championship in the United States and should play a pivotal role in the Cool Smashers’ quest for an 11th crown.
For Cignal, Greek outside hitter Eva Chantava is the reinforcement whom the team hopes to help them earn a shot at a breakthrough title.
Other reinforcements who have flown in are Cuban Yunieska Batista for Chery Tiggo, Belgian Helene Rousseaux for Farm Fresh, American Anna DeBeer for ZUS Coffee, Spaniard Paola Martinez Vela for Nxled and returnee Jelena Cvijovic of Montenegro for Galeries Tower.
