ILAGAN, ISABELA — Alessandro Lodi has coached in some of the top volleyball nations around the globe, but even he was caught off guard by the electric atmosphere brought by the Isabeleños at the Capital Arena over the weekend during the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour.
The Italian tactician was left in awe of how the volleyball-loving crowd in Isabela poured their support not only for Farm Fresh, but also for PLDT, Choco Mucho, and Petro Gazz during the Saturday and Sunday matches held in the heart of Cagayan Valley.
High praise, especially from a coach as well-traveled as Lodi — who has previously held coaching stints in Poland, Japan, Germany, the USA, Sweden, Czechia, Finland, and Switzerland.
“First of all, the crowd was spectacular,” Lodi said during the postgame press conference on Saturday after Farm Fresh’s thrilling 23-25, 25-19, 25-23, 26-24 comeback victory over Choco Mucho.
“I’ve been in many, many, many volleyball games all around the world, but I cannot remember a crowd that was that loud,” he added.
(C) PVL Images
Farm Fresh had to win over the packed Capital Arena during their opening match, as they faced the crowd favorites, Choco Mucho.
But thanks to their sharp attacks, timely plays, solid blocking, and gritty floor defense, the Foxies earned the admiration of the Isabela faithful — who had gathered for the province’s first-ever hosting of a professional volleyball match.
“That was amazing, and it doesn’t matter for whom they are cheering. I love having a lot of fans for the opposing team also. It’s all passion for volleyball, so it’s all great, and the fans were amazing,” said Lodi.
On Sunday, the Capital Arena roared once more, filled to capacity for the second consecutive day as Isabeleños were treated to another top-tier PVL showcase.
Riding the wave of momentum and feeding off the crowd’s energy, the Foxies completed a weekend sweep, stunning Petro Gazz in straight sets, 25-23, 25-21, 25-23. The back-to-back wins pushed Farm Fresh to a 2-1 record, placing them solo third in Pool A.
Just two months into his tenure as Farm Fresh head coach, Lodi may have already been converted into a true Philippine volleyball fan — thanks to the unforgettable welcome he received in Isabela.
