MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo superstar Alyssa Valdez is reuniting with former coach Roger Gorayeb to chase the their second championship together in the Shakey's V-League the last time they paired two years ago.
Gorayeb said he is happy that Valdez has decided to join his team, PLDT, in the coming Open Conference of the Shakey's V-League Open Conference scheduled April 5 at The Arena in San Juan City.
"She will be a vital part of this PLDT team," said Gorayeb referring to Valdez, whose Ateneo Lady Eagles won back-to-back UAAP championships.
Gorayeb, who was coach of Ateneo before he resigned and was replaced by Tai Bundit two years back, and Valdez won a Shakey's V-League title three years ago but lost to the National University Lady Bulldogs the next year.
They have a chance to win another one this conference.
"Hopefully, with her around, we could win another championship just like the old times," he said.
NU's 6-4 spiker Jaja Santiago is another big recruit that should further boost PLDT's title chances.
"Jaja is a key addition to this team," said Gorayeb, who is also coach of NU and the national under-23 and Southeast Asian Games women's teams.
Like Valdez, Ateneo libero Denden Lazaro will also reunite with Gorayeb as well as former teammate Cha Soriano in a roster that is already loaded with talented players like Ruby de Leon, Suzanne Roces, Gretchel Soltones, Amanda Villanueva, Jem Ferrer and Lizlee Ann Pantone.
Gorayeb said chemistry will not be a problem.
"I see no problem in the chemistry because Ruby (de Leon) and Alyssa knows how to play with each other," he said.
Gorayeb though sees Cagayan Valley, last year's import-laced Open titlist, and Philippine Army, the defending All-Filipino champion, as the biggest roadblocks to their title aspirations.
"I see all teams as strong but Cagayan and Army should have the slight edge having the most experienced teams," he said.
Other teams participating are Baguio, Fourbees, Meralco, Navy and Coast Guard.