6 teams vie in Shakey's V-League Open

MANILA, Philippines - Expect a downpour of volley action as the Shakey’s V-League holds its second “Open” tournament with four commercial clubs joining regular league teams Ateneo and Far Eastern U in the event unfolding Aug. 19 at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

Philippine Army, which toppled San Sebastian College to clinch the inaugural Shakey’s V-League Open crown last year, seeks to retain the crown as it banners a six-team field that includes Philippine Navy, Cagayan Province and Sandugo Sandals.

“Shakey’s Pizza’s commitment is to give the fans the best competition in women’s volleyball and at the same time further raise the level of the game. By holding this Open conference, we hope to achieve both,” said Vic Gregorio, vice president and COO of the sponsoring Shakey’s Pizza.

To make it more accessible to fans, organizers will hold the tournament at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

“We expect another slam-bang volley action in this upcoming tournament with Sandugo looming as the team to watch although Army and Ateneo remain formidable and the three others capable of pulling off surprises,” said Ricky Palou, president of the organizing Sports Vision.

Games will also be telecast on AKTV with live streaming at www.v-league.ph.

The Army ladies will be led by the core of their champion squad, including the power-hitting Carolino sisters – Marietta and Michelle – Joanne Buñag, Cristina Salak and Theresa Iratay with coach Rico de Guzman expecting another successful campaign in the six-week long event sponsored by Shakey’s Pizza and backed by Mikasa and Accel.