Shakey’s G-League opens today

CEBU, Philippines - The long wait is over as the Central Visayas leg of the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball League, the biggest junior girls volleyball competition in the country, fires off at 4 pm today at the Aznar Coliseum.

Despite the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hits Cebu last Tuesday, tournament’s officiating officials from Manila are already here for the start of the four-day competition.

“Yes, dayon gyud ta ani kay naa naman ang mga taga Manila officials,” said Cebu tournament coordinator Jordan Paca.

A total of 10 teams are seeing action in the event which includes defending regional champion Southwestern University (SWU), Pajo National High School, University of San Carlos (USC), St.Theresa's College, University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF), Southcrest School, Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu and Hijas de Jesus, Mandaue Comprehensive National High School and University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R).

USJ-R re-joined the tournament after a two-year hiatus, while Mandaue's bets will have their tournament debut today.

Fresh from their successful campaign in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI), the SWU belles are raring to defend their title to once again represent the region in the National finals in Manila.

Competing teams in the Shakey's G-League regional battle will be split into two groups. The winners will then proceed into the crossover semis wherein the survivors will slug it out for the championship. (FREEMAN)