After finishing fourth in the previous Premier Volleyball League (PVL) conference, the PLDT High Speed Hitters are aiming higher this season. With a refined system, international training exposure, and a key roster addition, the team is positioning itself as a strong contender in the All-Filipino Conference.
The squad opened the season with a decisive sweep over multi-titlist Creamline Cool Smashers and followed with a four-set victory against the Capital1 Solar Spikers.
Coach Rald Ricafort acknowledged that last season’s near-podium finish served as motivation. “Last season was very challenging. Even though we didn’t reach our final goal, the team learned a lot. We are working hard this pre-season to improve and hopefully reach our goal again this conference,” he said.
Team captain Kath Arado shared that the squad’s Japan training boosted both skills and mindset. “We’re looking at one game at a time because nearly every team has strengthened. The training in Japan taught us individually and as a team to play smarter and with more patience,” she said.
The Japanese experience focused on speed, discipline, and fundamentals. “Philippine volleyball still has a long way to go,” Ricafort said. “We saw young players maintain the consistency and discipline we aim to adopt. We want to play smart and stay mentally resilient.”
Adding further strength to the roster is middle blocker Seth Rodriguez, a former University of the East teammate of Arado. Rodriguez brings height, energy, and competitiveness to the middle, compensating for players like Dell Palomata who are playing abroad. Arado described Rodriguez as a “pillar” who can anchor both blocking and court intensity.
With these adjustments, the High Speed Hitters are emphasizing a more technical, disciplined, and faster style of play. “Hopefully, fans will notice a more technical approach in terms of executing skills,” Ricafort said. “We aim to play consistent, smart, and resilient volleyball.”
Rodriguez encouraged supporters to continue rallying behind the team. “PLDT fans, thank you for welcoming me. Please continue to support us, especially in the upcoming games this season,” she said.
As the PVL All-Filipino Conference intensifies, the PLDT High Speed Hitters aren’t just playing for points—they’re playing for redemption, and they’re aiming for the crown with the speed their name promises.
Fans can follow the High Speed Hitters’ journey on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok, and stream games in high definition through PLDT Home high-speed fiber internet.
