In her debut performance with PLDT during the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, Kim Fajardo showcased her prowess on the court while expressing heartfelt appreciation for the guidance provided by head coach Rald Ricafort and team captain Rhea Dimaculangan.
Thursday's match at the Filoil Ecooil Centre marked a triumphant beginning for Fajardo and the High Speed Hitters, as they dominated Galeries Tower with a convincing 25-22, 25-6, 25-9 victory.
Having transferred to PLDT after the abrupt disbandment of F2 Logistics post the 2023 PVL season, the former La Salle star admitted to initial nervousness about her decision. However, Fajardo credited her smooth transition to the invaluable guidance of her coaches.
"Initially, I wasn't sure how to adjust, but it became easy for me because of the guidance of my coaches," shared Fajardo, who delivered 11 excellent sets as the starting setter. "I'm happy that our first game had a positive outcome, although there's still much we need to polish."
The presence of Coach Rald Ricafort and Captain Rhea Dimaculangan proved instrumental in easing Fajardo into the High Speed Hitters' system. "I was nervous at first because it's my first time stepping out of my comfort zone. But now, it feels easier for me; everything feels manageable because Coach Rald always guides me. Ate Rhea and other players, since we play the same position, also guide me. I'm good now; the adjustment wasn't difficult at all," she added.
Fajardo, a 30-year-old playmaker hailing from Calatagan, Batangas, expressed her excitement at playing alongside Fil-Canadian outside spiker Savannah Davison, emphasizing Davison's attacking prowess as a valuable asset on the court.
"I'm confident because we have Savi (Davison). For me, every set I give her, she can find a way to score points," said the three-time UAAP champion.
Looking ahead, Fajardo eagerly anticipates sharing the court with injured High Speed Hitters stars Mika Reyes, Jovie Prado, and Kianna Dy, her longtime teammate with the Cargo Movers. Despite the excitement, Fajardo emphasized the importance of focusing on the available players for now.
"We're excited for them to come back and join us in training and games. But, of course, for me, I'll focus on who's available. That's the current goal," she concluded.
