The powerhouse PLDT HOME Telpad Turbo Boosters, headed by veteran volleyball coach Roger Gorayeb (standing, third from left), hopes to make a lasting impression in their maiden season for the Shakey’s V-League. In photo are: (standing from left) team captain Suzanne Roces, Charo Soriano, Gorayeb, Angela Benting, Rysabelle Devanadera, Royce Estampa; (seated from left) Des Patilano, Lizlee Gata-Pantone, Rubie De Leon, and Laurence Anne Latigay.
Currently competing in their first season, PLDT HOME Telpad’s all-girl squad, Turbo Boosters, became the first team to enter Shakey’s V-League Season 11 Open Conference’s semi-finals round. The team has managed to quickly rise to the top with its talented roster, including: the league’s former most valuable player Suzanne Roces; Ateneo’s former Lady Eagle star player Charo Soriano; and San Sebastian’s former Lady Stags Gretchen Soltones, Laurence Ann Latigay and Angela Benting.
PLDT HOME Telpad head coach Roger Gorayeb said, “the experience of our players came to fore in the games and clinched for us victory after victory. As we move into the semis, and as we are further reinforced by our top recruits Santiago plus two more, we are further driven to show our supporters that with discipline and hard work, coupled with the right combination of game strategies, we can win the crown.”
Advocates of volleyball in the Philippines
Volleyball competitions like the University Athletic Association of the Philippines and the Palarong Pambansa for students, and semi-professional tournaments like the Shakey’s Volleyball League help bring volleyball to a mainstream audience. These local competitions paved the way to bringing attention in volleyball across the country.
Further fueling this extensive interest in the game, PLDT HOME Telpad’s formed its first ever Shakey’s V-League team. Patrick Tang, PLDT vice president and head of HOME voice solutions said, “Supporting Philippine sports has always been a key component of PLDT HOME’s DNA. We are proud to be at the forefront of helping grow the popularity and significance of volleyball in the Philippines by sponsoring talented teams.”