For an organization initially hesitant to take on the challenge, Sports Vision's seamless organization and execution of the just-concluded AVC Women’s Volleyball Champions League proved nothing short of spectacular.
Despite being tapped on short notice after Korea and Vietnam backed out due to logistical issues, Sports Vision – through its Premier Volleyball League – rose to the occasion. Top officials from the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) were unanimous in their praise of the smooth and successful staging of what used to be the Asian Club Championship for Men and Women.
“At first, it was supposed to be Korea, then Vietnam. But after some challenges, we talked to Ricky Palou and Don Caringal, and agreed there was no other choice but to host it here,” said AVC and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon Suzara.
He also thanked the PVL for stepping up:
“This is an important event. We appreciate Sports Vision’s commitment. Since I became president, we’ve worked to rebrand the Champions League to create a new image for AVC, and this hosting was a perfect start,” said Suzara.
Palou, president of Sports Vision and the PVL, humbly shared the credit with his team, emphasizing the collective effort that ensured the successful hosting of 12 top clubs from 10 different countries.
Beyond just pulling off the event, Palou noted that hosting the Champions League provided valuable insights that will help further strengthen the organization of the country’s premier women’s volleyball league.
Sports Vision has long been at the forefront of Philippine volleyball, having revived the sport in 2004 with the Shakey’s V-League, and later rebranding it into the PVL. In 2021, it transitioned into a full-fledged professional league while continuing to organize the Spikers’ Turf for men and the V-League for collegiate teams.
Gratitude poured in from AVC officials, including Suzara and secretary-general Hugh Graham, who lauded the PVL for its readiness, professionalism, and smooth management despite the limited preparation time.
“For us, it’s truly an honor to be trusted with such a prestigious event,” said Palou. “We’ve been running professional leagues for years, but international hosting teaches us even more. We’re grateful to AVC for this opportunity.”
As the eight-day tournament, capped by Zhetysu VC of Kazakhstan's four-set win over Vietnam’s Binh Dien Long An, wrapped up, Sports Vision now eyes a bigger stage.
“With the experience we gained and the strong showing we delivered, we’re ready and eager to host even bigger international tournaments in the future,” said Palou.
AVC's Graham, set to lead the Control Committee of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championships, affirmed the PVL’s readiness, noting: “Finding reliable hosts is always a challenge. Sports Vision has proven they are more than up to the task.”
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