The PSL-F2 Logistics are venturing right in the eye of the historic storm that is the 2016 FIVB Women’s Club World Championship.
Seen as the most important hosting the country has had in years, F2 Logistics Manila – composed of seven imports and seven of the PSL’s best local talent – has the unenviable task of spearheading the country’s bid to gain momentum internationally.
“It’s big event for Philippines. I’m very thankful for PSL for giving me the chance to coach prestigious event for the Philippines,” said head coach Moro Branislav.
“World Club is like NBA of volleyball,” compared the Serbian mentor. “Teams here are even better than the Olympics because the National Team players are playing on the same team here. It’s a higher level of volleyball.”
In its nearly two-decades of competitions, 2016 figures to be the most competitive with eight deep squads in tow.
Defending champs Eczacıbaşı VitrA loaded up, signing Team USA stalwarts Rachel Adams and Jordan Larson, Brazil’s Thaisa Menzes, and 2016 Olympics breakout star, Serbia’s Tijana Boskovic.
Turkish club Vakifbank Istanbul boasts a star-studded lineup of Rio gold medalist Zhu Ting of China, bronze medalist Kim Hill of USA and Lonneke Slöetjes of the Netherlands.
The Philippine contingent is grouped with Vakifbank and Brazilian powerhouse Rexona Ades.
PSL Manila skipper Rachel Daquis is well-aware of how what is expected of her team. Although a win seems bleak, Daquis is excited to represent the hopes and dreams of Pinoys against the world’s best.
“Hindi naman sa intimidated. More of excited pa nga kami kasi we know that this is such a big opportunity for us. We’ll do our best for everyone who trusted us and for everyone that will watch us play,” the 28-year old veteran expressed.
“Siguro for everyone on the team, this is the biggest event na lalaruin namin. Of course may pressure, but it’s nothing that we can’t handle.”
PSL Manila will begin it’s campaign tomorrow, 4:30 pm at the SM MOA Arena against Rexona.
