MANILA, Philippines – After falling short of winning the Grand Prix title, F2 Logistics will be marching with a loaded roster when the Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga Invitational Conference fires off on June 23.
Team manager Hollie Reyes said they would parade rising star Michelle Cobb to help Kim Fajardo in the playmaking department in this prestigious club tourney bankrolled by Isuzu and UCPB Gen.
A PSL exposure will be beneficial to the development of the 19-year-old Cobb.
Based on the tournament format, all teams are required to play all 14 players in their roster, giving Cobb the golden opportunity to test her skills and decision-making against the likes of Rhea Dimaculangan of Petron, Gyzelle Sy of Foton, Rebecca Rivera and Rubie de Leon of Sta. Lucia Realty and even Tina Salak of Cocolife.
Aside from that, she would also get a chance to play against the national women’s volleyball team, which will be coming in as a guest team in this battle that also has ESPN5, Hyper HD and Aksyon TV as official broadcasters.
“That’s the goal,” said Reyes.
“Coach Ramil (de Jesus) wants to prepare her for the next UAAP season so he’s giving Michelle the exposure she needs. The PSL will surely help her grow, not only as a setter, but also as a complete player”
Aside from Cobb, also returning are Dawn Macandili, Desiree Cheng, Tin Tiamzon and Kianna Dy — the stalwarts who led De La Salle University to the UAAP crown early this year.
Former UAAP Most Valuable Player Majoy Baron will also be back following a surprise appearance in Game Two of their PSL Grand Prix best-of-three finals showdown against Petron.
Of course, Michelle Morente will still be there to help Dy at the opposite side.
Reyes, however, said that they opted not to include May Luna in the roster as their open spiker position is still loaded with talent, thanks to Ara Galang and veteran Cha Cruz-Behag.
“If you can see, all teams are preparing for the Invitationals,” said Reyes, noting that Sta. Lucia drafted Jhoanna Maraguinot, Toni Rose Basas, Jeanette Villareal, Roselle Baliton and Carly Hernandez while Foton tapped Bea de Leon.
“We don’t want our team to be left behind. That’s why we’re bringing in a complete roster because we know that the Invitationals will be a serious battle.”