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In the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference, two foreign guest players stood at the forefront of their respective teams, showcasing skill and leadership despite their contrasting circumstances.
On one hand, the 23-year-old Erica Staunton, the youngest reinforcement of the tournament, proved to be the key figure in Creamline’s victorious campaign, steering the Cool Smashers to another championship. Her relentless drive, youthful energy, and ability to stay composed in crucial moments cemented her role as a future star in the league.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Cignal’s 36-year-old MJ Perez defied expectations by earning the Best Foreign Guest Player award. Despite being the oldest import in the conference, the Venezuelan spiker continued to display world-class prowess, reminding everyone that age is just a number.
“Age? It’s only a number,” Perez said with a smile. “I’m very happy, of course. I didn’t expect that award because I only try my best to help my team win and contribute as much as I can.”
Standing at 6-foot-2, Perez was a dominant force for the HD Spikers throughout the Reinforced Conference. She accumulated a total of 229 points, placing her among the top scorers. Her sharp serves ranked her seventh in aces with an average of 0.26 per set, while her spiking efficiency stood at 34.38 percent, placing her ninth overall in the league.
Yet, despite her stellar individual performance, Cignal’s collective effort fell short of the ultimate prize. The team settled for another bronze finish, their fifth overall in the PVL—a respectable achievement, but not enough for Perez’s ambitious spirit.
"We may have lost our chance in the Reinforced Conference, but we have another opportunity now," said Perez.
The Invitational Conference promises no easy path, with its grueling week-long round-robin format. Teams like Farm Fresh, Creamline, and guest squads Kurashiki and Est Cola are all vying for a spot in the final. Only the top two teams will advance to a winner-take-all championship game, while the third and fourth seeds battle for bronze.
Despite the daunting schedule, which has games packed almost every day, Perez remains unfazed.
“We will do our best, even though the schedule is tough with games almost every day,” she said after Cignal’s dominant 25-16, 25-10, 25-18 win over Farm Fresh at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex.
The victory showcased the HD Spikers' hunger and potential for the title they narrowly missed.
As the HD Spikers brace for back-to-back games on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and potentially Thursday, the 36-year-old veteran knows that managing their energy levels will be crucial.
"We have to manage our fatigue and physical condition," Perez acknowledged, fully aware of the physical toll the week-long tournament will impose on the team.
"It’s all about mindset, and we will do our best to achieve the best result in this Invitational."
