Set to make their debut in the ongoing 2025 PFF Women’s Football League, the Capital1 Solar Strikers have two clear goals: to win on the pitch and to help grow women’s football in the country.
Co-owners Mandy and Milka Romero, head coach Let Dimzon, and foreign standouts Emma Young and Arianna Del Moral are eager not only to contend for the championship in their inaugural campaign but also to serve as an inspiration and platform for young female athletes to showcase their skills.
Following the success of the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League just a year after their establishment, the Romero sisters are now setting their sights on a sport that holds a special place in their hearts — football.
“Just a bit of a backstory: for our volleyball team, we secured the PVL franchise in less than three weeks. This time, it took just two weeks. I think we thrive under pressure, but with God’s perfect timing, everything feels easier when you’re passionate about it, prepared for it, and the right opportunity comes along,” said Milka Romero.
“Honestly, with Coach Let and the PFF being so capable of welcoming new teams, the process was much more effortless. Everything fell into place. It has been my dream to give back since I’ve been playing for 20 years. Even now, I still play. To let you know, I’m also on the team roster.”
Leveraging Their Passion to Grow Women’s Football
Over the years, women’s football in the Philippines has seen steady growth. UAAP matches, particularly during the finals, draw significant crowds. The PFF Women’s League has also gained recognition as a respected domestic competition in Asia, underscored by defending champion Kaya-Iloilo representing the country in last year’s inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League in Thailand.
Now in a position to make a meaningful impact on the sport’s continued growth, the Romero sisters are determined to use their passion for football to propel it further.
“We love volleyball as well, but football has always been our first love, something I learned from my sister. She had a great career in the UAAP as the women’s co-captain of Ateneo football. We’re really excited to be part of this league,” said Mandy Romero.
“Seeing the success of women’s volleyball, both nationwide and internationally, we want the same for women’s football. This is the time for women’s football. We’re here to push this movement forward and to show every young girl that they can dream as big as they want. There are people here who will continue to support them.”
Bringing in a Proven Winner
Perhaps the strongest statement of their intent to win was hiring Let Dimzon—widely regarded as the best women’s football coach in the country. Dimzon has won multiple championships in the UAAP and PFF Women’s League and has also served as head coach of the Philippine national team.
Her presence instantly adds credibility to the Solar Strikers, earning respect from both players and competing teams. For the long-time Far Eastern University mentor, leading a new club presents a challenge worth embracing, especially with a roster featuring standout collegiate players such as Judie Arevalo, Yasmin Elauria, Regine Rebosura, Hazel Lustan, and Lyka Teves.
“I’m very thankful to Milka and Mandy for putting this team together,” said Dimzon. “We’re always here, and we’re passionate about developing women’s football. It’s very timely that we kick off the PFF Women’s League this month, which also happens to be Women’s Month. We’re excited for the league and for the opportunity to start with a new team that features a mix of UAAP alumnae.”
“As for what we can expect in this first year, I always say that building a team and developing chemistry takes time. But with Coach Let at the helm and the talented players we have, we’re starting strong. We’re excited for the future of this team, and we hope you’ll support Capital1 in both the PVL and the PFF Women’s League,” added Mandy Romero.
“Talagang, it’s full circle,” said Milka Romero. “As busy as I am with our business, I always find my way back to sports and the community because that’s where I learned everything. As much as possible, we want to give back by providing a platform for more girls — not just in Manila, but across the Philippines. We’re learning as we go, and we’re very grateful to have mentors and partners supporting the Capital1 Solar Strikers.”
Attracting Foreign Talent
Adding firepower to the Capital1 Solar Strikers’ debut campaign are two foreign standouts: Emma Young and Arianna Del Moral.
Young, a defender who played 80 matches for Mississippi College, earned accolades such as the 2021 GSC Defensive Player of the Year and United Soccer Coaches First-Team All-American. The decision to join the Solar Strikers was an easy one for her as she looked to expand her playing career.
“I honestly think it was a pretty easy decision,” said Young. “I was really grateful for this opportunity to come and play, to experience a different part of the world, to be led by a great coach, and to contribute to the growth of women’s sports in the country. It just made sense.”
Meanwhile, Del Moral, a midfielder with experience in the U.S. and Malta, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome she has received in the Philippines. Like the Romero sisters and Dimzon, she is committed to growing women’s football, recognizing that the sport still has room for improvement on a global scale.
“It’s been great, and everyone has been so welcoming, which has been amazing,” said Del Moral. “In such a short time, I’ve already seen the culture and how friendly everyone is. Based on my experience playing in different parts of Europe, I know that growing women’s soccer is a global effort.
“And so, seeing the passion here and the drive to make leagues more competitive, I think it’s important that we keep pushing for progress. This isn’t just a local issue — it’s something we’re all fighting for around the world.”
