Gorayeb targets own ‘slam’ in Shakey’s V-L

MANILA, Philippines - Though he emphasizes the importance of team play, coach Roger Gorayeb hopes to complete a personal milestone when PLDT Home Ultera sets out for the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference, which unfolds tomorrow at The Arena in San Juan City.

Gorayeb steered the team to a classic five-setter of a sudden death in the Open Conference last June, then guided National U to another title victory, also via sudden death, over Ateneo for the Collegiate Conference crown last week, putting him on track for a personal grand slam.

With a star-studded roster, led by MVP Alyssa Valdez, Gorayeb said he likes his wards’ chances in the season-ending conference of the league sponsored by Shakey’s, not to complete a rare personal feat but to deliver another crown for PLDT.

“I’m not thinking of the individual accolades but I’m more concerned on helping my players grow and if we can help it, win championships for the team,” said Gorayeb, who is seeking his sixth title.

The league is presented by PLDT Home Ultera and backed by Mikasa and Accel.

Valdez, meanwhile, may miss some games in the early going of the tournament to honor a previous commitment to play in the 78th UAAP beach volley competition alongside Ateneo teammate Bea Tan.

The crisp-hitting ace, however, vowed to suit up for PLDT again right after the UAAP tilt and try to help the team nail another title.

To firm up PLDT’s drive, Gorayeb tapped Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and Jannine Marciano, formerly of Cagayan Valley, to join Sue Roces, Rubie de Leon, Jem Ferrer, Tata Pantone and reigning NCAA MVP Gretchel Soltones in the star-studded crew.

Others vying in the short, import-laced weekend-only tournament are Army, Navy, Coast Guard, University of the Philippines and newcomer Kia Motors Forte.

Meanwhile, GMA 7 will air the weekend games live starting at 12:45 p.m. on GMA News TV Channel 11, including the two Sunday matches.

UP and Navy clash in the lone opening match set at 12:45 p.m.

Format is a single round robin elims with the top four advancing to the crossover semifinals. The top two squads will also earn twice-to-beat incentives in the Final Four.

Winners will dispute the championship in a best-of-three series with the losers clashing for third place in a separate best-of-three playoff.