Inspired by her encounter with Japan star Ran Takahashi, Grethcel Soltones delivered a stellar performance in the Akari Chargers’ four-set rout of Farm Fresh in the knockout quarterfinals of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference.
Takahashi had come to the Philippines as the new brand ambassador for Akari. He attended the Saturday double-header and even visited the Chargers’ dugout to wish them good luck.
“Actually, part si Ran sa inspiration ko kasi nakikita ko siya hindi lang siya cute, magaling din siya sa technique ‘yun yung sinasabi ni Coach [Taka]. So ayun, nung pumasok siya sabi ko lang, ‘Hi Ran! It’s nice to see you,” revealed Soltones.
Seeing the Ryujin Nippon ace for the second consecutive day definitely motivated Soltones. She showcased an all-around performance with 17 points, 10 excellent receptions, and nine excellent digs to lead her team to their first-ever semifinal appearance.
Despite helping the franchise secure the big win, Soltones still sees a couple of areas where they can improve before their semifinal encounter against the winner of the PLDT-Chery Tiggo quarterfinal matchup.
“Yun nga, ‘yung kailangan pa naming ma-improve as a team is ‘yung paano kami maging masaya. ‘Yun nga, parang kanina like ‘yung mga games na naghahabol kami ng set, ‘yun ‘yung naging problema namin,” said the 28-year-old outside hitter.
“Tatahimik kami, tapos titingin kami kung sino ‘yung mauuna, parang ganun. So kailangan first set pa lang, kailangan may mag-step up agad. ‘Yun nga, enjoyment talaga,” she continued.
“Sabi ko nga, hindi kami dumating dito dahil easy lang ‘yung ginawa namin. Also, parang inspiration ko is my teammates, the hard work, especially sabi ko nga, sabi nga namin, kapag gitgitan ‘yung laban, hanap ka ng pwede mong kapitan.”
Soltones also cautioned the Chargers not to get caught up in the glory, emphasizing that they haven’t truly accomplished anything until they lift the championship trophy.
“Yun nga, parang ‘di namin iniisip ‘yun eh. Siguro for others, historic na siya pero kasi ‘yun nga, hangga’t hindi pa namin nahahawakan ‘yung trophy, wala pa kaming napapatunayan.”
