![Garflor Frank Rao PVL](https://sports.inquirer.net/files/2023/12/IMG_0374_PVL-All-Filipino-conference-Gerflor-Cignal_Gerflor-Defenders.jpg)
FILE – Garfrow Defenders concludes PVL All-Filipino Campaign. –Marlo Cueto/INQUIRER.net
The savior appeared there Rescue of Garflor inside Premier Volleyball League (PVL) has finally named its newest team. And it has a very familiar ring to it.
Businessman Frank Rao announced on Saturday that a new team will take over the Strong Group Athletics (SGA) brand in the PVL, but while the team is still under construction, its sister team will be adding members for the league's next season. continues to be strengthened.
“Establishing a second team in the Premier Volleyball League was a no-brainer for us,” Coach Rao said in announcing SGA's participation in the professional league. “The PVL is a consistent source of entertainment for fans of all ages, and we are excited to contribute to the league in any way we can.”
Strong Group is a sister team to Farm Fresh, whose owner is Laos, who is a „Good Samaritan'' for the former Defenders, who have been burdened with salary concerns following allegations of non-payment by manager Garfroe.
This brand is the same one carried by basketball teams that compete in annual tournaments in the Middle East.This year's Powerful group basketball team They attracted a lot of attention when they signed NBA champion Dwight Howard and former Gilas Pilipinas main man Andrei Blache as imported players.
“Having a second team will lead to more opportunities for Filipino volleyball players and coaches. We believe in the potential of our athletes and by providing them with an additional platform where they can showcase their talents. , contributing to the growth of volleyball in this country,” added Rao, who is also the owner of the PBA's Converge FiberXers.
Former head coach Garflor Sammy AkilerHowever, he told the Inquirer that he is still awaiting Rao's decision on whether he should lead a new team. Akailar added that he will respect if management decides his services are not needed.
Strong Group's entry into the professional volleyball league was also welcomed by PVL Chairman Ricky Palou.
No lineup yet
„I'm so grateful to Frank Rao and Strong Group Athletics for not only paying the Garfroe Defenders' salary last year, but also for taking the bold step of launching a second team in the PVL.“ Parow said. “This shows their strong commitment to the development and success of volleyball in the Philippines.”
Strong Group has not yet announced its roster.
Meanwhile, the Foxes continued to strengthen heading into the season, signing more players to strengthen their young roster. Spikers Jolina Dela Cruz, Chinny Arroyo and Elaine Casirag were acquired from the defunct F2 Logistics, while middle blocker Jaysel delos Reyes was poached from Chery Tigo. Two standouts from the University of Santo Tomas, libero Janelle Delelio and outside hitter April Tapia, will also join Farm Fresh.
The newest Foxes join a young core of team captain Louie Romero, Kate Santiago, Sofia Ildefonso, Alyssa Beltrano, the powerful Trisha Toub, and a strong player from St. Benilde College, hoping for even better results next season. aim.
Farm Fresh debuted 13th in the last invitational conference, but finished 10th in the season-ending All-Filipino Conference with the franchise's first two wins.