After falling short in the quarterfinals of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, Mika Reyes feels determined to steer PLDT back on track as they set their sights on redemption in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League.
Reyes, one of the veteran leaders of the High Speed Hitters, shared that the team is using their recent heartbreak as motivation heading into the continental tournament, where they hope to leave a stronger impression against some of Asia’s top clubs.
“Of course, we’re very grateful for this opportunity kasi hindi naman din lahat nabibigyan ng chance na ganito — lalo na AVC pa ‘to,” said the 30-year-old middle blocker, as PLDT was tapped as a last-minute replacement for Japan’s NEC Red Rockets.
“So coming to this tournament, very excited din kami kahit na ganun ‘yung nangyari sa PVL namin na parang may isa pa kaming chance na ma-redeem ‘yung sarili namin. The fact na naka-join kami dito, magandang opportunity na rin,” she added.
(C) PVL Images
Determined to bounce back from their straight-set loss to Choco Mucho in the PVL quarterfinals, PLDT opened their AVC Champions League campaign on a high note, sweeping Queensland of Australia, 25-19, 25-12, 25-12, on Sunday at the Philsports Arena.
Reyes delivered an 11-point performance — second most for the team — on nine attacks, an ace, and a block, helping PLDT move a step closer to securing a quarterfinals berth with a 1-0 start in Pool D.
Adding to the 6-foot middle blocker’s motivation is the fact that the tournament is being held on home soil, further fueling PLDT’s desire to showcase their best game in front of Filipino fans.
Reyes was particularly moved by the support shown by local volleyball fans — especially those from rival clubs Creamline and Petro Gazz — towards the High Speed Hitters, a gesture she deeply appreciates.
“Siguro mas masaya lang maglaro ngayon kasi dito siya sa Manila ginawa, so makakanood pa rin ‘yung family and friends namin,” said the former La Salle star.
“Yung support from everyone na hindi lang… I mean kung ico-compare ko kasi sa PVL, syempre ‘yung support ng Creamline, ng Petro Gazz, sinusuportahan din nila kami so we’re very happy of course.”
