ILOCOS NORTE -- After overcoming pandemic challenges, Rei Diaz said his Perlas Spikers are battle-ready for their much-awaited debut against Choco Mucho in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference on Sunday.
Perlas finally opens its bubble campaign at 4 pm against an unbeaten Choco Mucho side at the PCV Socio-Civic and Cultural Center.
The team has been through a lot as its games in the first week were postponed after a member of its delegation tested positive for Covid-19.
A month before the conference, seven players and a coach contracted the virus in their Baguio training camp.
It was a tough stretch for the Perlas Spikers but Diaz said those bigger battles off the court made them stronger.
"Happy, blessed, and excited ang team. Nakakaoverwhelm talaga na marinig mo sa players na they surrendered everything to Him and all of us felt the love and faithfulness of the Lord. God is good!" he said.
As they set to open their maiden professional stint, bigger on-court challenges await the Perlas Spikers as they take on the unscathed Flying Titans, bannered by Kat Tolentino and former Ateneo stars, to kick-off their loaded week.
In less than 24 hours, Nicole Tiamzon, Jho Maraguinot, Mich Morente, and Jem Ferrer will face Chery Tiggo (2-1).
They return to action on Thursday battling Cignal (1-1) and tackle Petro Gazz (2-1) on Friday.
After all they've been through, Diaz said the Perlas Spikers are happy to finally take their on-court challenges.
"One at the time, planning, and teamwork," he said. "With excellent players, we just have to become one para mas maging madali ang lahat ng bagay. Laking tulong din talaga ng family-oriented culture ng Perlas Spikers." (AL)
