Stinging PVL semis loss strengthens bond for High Speed Hitters

MANILA, Philippines – Following a controversial semifinal loss against the eventual 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference runners-up Akari Chargers, the PLDT High Speed Hitters found solace and comfort in each other. 

Former team captain Mika Reyes said that the loss really stung, but “it helped that we talked about it and we bonded over it.” 

“We found comfort from each other on the team. It was also good that we could share our emotions with our supporters who themselves sent our team their sympathy and prayers,” Reyes said in an interview. 

“Despite what happened, it helped to know that we weren't alone. We drew comfort from each other on the team, management and the supporters,” he added. 

But despite finding comfort in each other, Reyes stressed that it “has been really tough.” 

“It took a toll on us in many ways. Physically, you can feel fatigue times 10 because whatever we fought for that day was wasted and the games before to get to that stage,” she said. 

“Mentally and emotionally, there is frustration that we cannot do anything.” 

Current team skipper Kath Arado also admitted that it was really hard to accept, but said that if it is part of the team’s process, they will trust in God’s will. 

Akari defeated PLDT in five sets in the semifinals. 

With the High Speed Hitters at match point, 14-13, Akari’s Ezra Madrigal had a contact with the net while a play was ongoing. PLDT challenged the net touch, but it was deemed unsuccessful since it was a second motion. 

The PVL then cited FIVB rules to defend the non-call. 

PLDT eventually lost the fifth set and the match, 17-15. 

Reyes, in the same interview, added that they learned a lot from the setback. 

“The past event made us learn further that in the world of sports, we athletes encounter many challenges and that some of which are beyond our control to ultimately humble us. But having the PLDT management, we're very lucky with how they took care of us and trusted us.” 

On Wednesday, the High Speed Hitters fell in the bronze medal match against the Cignal HD Spikers, 25-21, 19-25, 18-25, 23-15. 

Arado thanked the team’s fans who continued to support the squad. 

“To the fans, no words can express my gratitude and happiness every time we are with you. We may not be as many as the other teams’ fans, but you are the best fans for us!” she said. 

“To the public giving us the confidence to move forward, we thank you for all those trusting us. Expect us to fight for you.”