Crowd-darling Creamline banners an elite showpiece for fans up north as the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) unveils its two-month preseason competition Sunday at the newly inaugurated, state-of-the-art Chavit Coliseum in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
The Cool Smashers headline the opening-day double-header in a Pool B clash against revamped Capital1 in the PVL on Tour main game set at 6:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Akari and Cignal clash at 4 p.m. in an exciting and thrilling curtain-raiser in the two-day series backed by One Ilocos Sur.
While seasoned stars continue to draw fanfare, it’s also a stage for the league’s promising rookies and rising sophomores eager to prove their mettle as they prepare for the regular mid-season import-flavored Reinforced Conference set in October.
“This first leg of the PVL On Tour marks more than just the beginning of our pre-season tournament — it symbolizes a meaningful connection between the sport and the community, between the players and the fans, between our league and its future,” PVL president Ricky Palou said.
“Four of the top teams in the league are here, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive tournament. These teams aren’t just competing; they’re here to inspire, to connect and to engage,” he added.
Veteran star Alyssa Valdez leads Creamline’s formidable lineup infused by youthful firepower with new acquisitions middle blockers Sheena Toring and Nica Celis.
“We’re really excited to go around the Philippines and experience the culture of every province we visit and meet the volleyball community,” Valdez said.
“But at the end of the day, we’re still here to compete — we hope to give our best for the fans.”
The Solar Spikers, on the other hand, usher in a new era under Alas Pilipinas head coach Jorge Souza de Brito, who replaced longtime mentor Roger Gorayeb, now serving as team consultant.
While top overall pick Bella Belen is unavailable due to national team duties, Capital1 has bolstered its core with other key Draft picks in Pia Abbu and Ivy Aquino along with veteran campaigners Jerrili Malabanan, KC Galdones and Rachel Austero to help holdovers Trisha Genesis, Iris Tolenada and Roma Mae Doromal.
Cignal, meanwhile, looks to bounce back from a turbulent previous conference with a revitalized roster. Key additions Erika Santos and Tin Tiamzon, along with prized rookie Erin Pangilinan, are expected to make an immediate impact, backed by core players Gel Cayuna, Ishie Lalongisip and Rose Doria.