Lena Samoilenko has returned to the fold with PLDT High Speed Hitters in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference, eager to make her mark once more.
Having previously donned the PLDT jersey in the 2022 edition of the tournament, Samoilenko reintroduced herself to the Philippine volleyball scene in spectacular fashion during PLDT’s gripping five-set victory over Creamline at the Philsports Arena last Tuesday.
"Scoring 34 points, I don't really feel good about it. But now, I'm a bit tired but it's okay," remarked the soft-spoken 6-foot-4 opposite spiker, reflecting on her standout performance.
Returning after a two-year hiatus, Samoilenko showcased her prowess with 34 points, comprising 32 successful attacks and two aces, in addition to contributing 14 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs. Her stellar performance was instrumental as the High Speed Hitters dealt the perennial contenders, Creamline, their first opening-day defeat since the import-laden conference of 2019.
When asked about her motivation, Samoilenko expressed a simple yet resolute commitment to success: "Every game, I aim to win and improve, and I want to contribute to my team."
During her initial tenure with PLDT, despite finishing as the league's top scorer, Samoilenko fell short of guiding the team to the semifinals. PLDT concluded the tournament with three wins against five losses, securing a sixth-place finish. At that time, the team dynamics were different, under the helm of head coach George Pascua, and featured players like Jules Samonte, Chin Basas, and Rhea Dimaculangan in key roles.
Fast forward to the present, and PLDT High Speed Hitters have fortified their roster with talent, headlined by Fil-Canadian outside hitter Savannah Davison. Coach Rald Ricafort, who previously clinched the Reinforced Conference title with Petro Gazz, credited Samoilenko's early arrival for facilitating a seamless integration into the team's system, evident in her impactful debut.
“Good thing din samin, Lena came in early parang nakasakto siya dun sa one month preparation so malaking bagay ‘yun samin. Plus, nandiyan pa rin naman ‘yung mga core players eh. Buti nag-step up din si Fio (Ceballos) sa dulong part,”Ricafort remarked on Samoilenko's contribution.
