PVL newcomers Capital1 unveil initial lineup

MANILA, Philippines – A good mix of young and veteran players will comprise Capital1 Solar Energy in its much-awaited debut in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, which fires off on February 20.

Former Far Eastern University star Heather Guino-o and Jannine Navarro, who helped power College of St. Benilde to the NCAA championship in 2016, will spearhead the Solar Spikers, a team determined to make an impression and hopefully gain the attention of millions of volleyball fans around the country.

Young Solar Spikers owners Mandy and Milka Romero and comebacking champion coach Roger Gorayeb are also pinning their hopes on ex-La Salle player Arianne Layug, National University’s Jorelle Singh and University of the East’s Janeca Lana for the extra offense. 

The Romero sisters — coming from sports-oriented family — are convinced that their players will go out and play their level best each game given another opportunity to prove their worth.

“This will be a good opportunity for them to shine and be recognized so we are giving our all-out support to the team,” said Mandy, who heads the family-owned solar energy company. “My sister and I are hoping we can grow together in support of PH sports, especially volleyball.”

Milka, for her part, said: “We are not in a hurry, we take it one step at time until we build a winning culture. That’s our goal.”

An added excitement to the Romero sisters is Gorayeb’s humor to the game, being one of the country’s well-decorated and respected coaches. 

For one, Gorayeb said: “Gutom sa playing time ang mga iyan, so they have this great desire to win games. Abangan nio na lang sila.”

Other members of the team are Rovee Instrella, Renesa Melgar, Sydney Niegos, Lourdes Clemente, Shyra Umandal, Cathrina Dizon, Kath Villegas, May Macatuno, Jel Quizon, Rica Rivera and Bingle Landicho.

Five more players, including three veterans, will reinforce the Solar Spikers before the flourishing pro league begins.