Gorayeb shifts focus to PLDT’s V-League grand slam bid

MANILA, Philippines – Roger Gorayeb, who recently steered National University to the Shakey's V-League Season 12-Collegiate Conference title, will try to achieve another feat as he eyes an unprecedented Grand Slam as PLDT joins the Shakey's V-League Third Conference starting on Saturday at The Arena in San Juan City.

Gorayeb told The STAR on Tuesday he has fielded in a star-studded PLDT squad headed by Collegiate Conference MVP Alyssa Valdez, eyeing no less than a rare season sweep after topping the first two conference of the Shakey's V-League including the Open Conference last May.

"We're joining this conference," said Gorayeb, who is also the current national team coach and one of the most decorated in the country today.

Gorayeb, however, downplayed his feat.

"I'm not thinking of the individual accolades I get. I'm more concern with helping my players grow and if we can help it, win the championship as well," he said.

Valdez, meanwhile, may miss some early games because she is scheduled to play in the 78th UAAP beach volley competition alongside Ateneo teammate Bea Tan, but she is expected to suit up as soon as she's available.

Gorayeb has also added Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and Jannine Marciano, formerly of Cagayan Valley, into the fold and will join the team already loaded in talent in Suzanne Roces, Rubie de Leon, Jem Ferrer, Tata Pantone and reigning NCAA MVP Gretchel Soltones.

PLDT though will miss Jaja Santiago, who will play in the other league.

"We have a hole in the middle. I hope to get an import who will plug those holes," said Gorayeb.

Valdez, for her part, is eyeing a second title in the league after she help power PLDT to a hard-earned title-clinching Game Three victory over a souped-up Army in the Open Conference.

Aside from PLDT, the other teams joining the short, import-laced tournament, which will be played during Saturdays and Sundays, are Army, Navy, Coast Guard, University of the Philippines and a still undisclosed squad.