As the PLDT High Speed Hitters brace for their quarterfinal showdown against Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu in the AVC Women’s Club Volleyball Championship, middle blocker Mika Reyes says fans can expect nothing less than passion and grit from her squad.
Set for Thursday at PhilSports Arena, the clash is a do-or-die matchup for the Filipino club, who face a significant challenge against the taller and more experienced Kazakh squad.
“Expect passion and grit. No matter what, we’ll fight for every point and leave it all on the court,” said Reyes, who once again finds herself representing the Philippines on the international stage.
PLDT joins fellow PVL teams Creamline and Petro Gazz in the quarterfinals after each squad tallied one victory in the preliminary rounds. The High Speed Hitters advanced thanks to a dominant sweep of Queensland Pirates of Australia: 25-19, 25-12, 25-12.
They also put up a strong fight against Thai powerhouse Nakhon Ratchasima, battling back from a two-set deficit before narrowly falling in five sets—a performance that showed their potential and resilience.
Still, Reyes emphasized the team’s greater mission: development and growth.
“Our goal is to fight hard, improve as a team, and learn,” said the former DLSU star.
The stakes are high, but so is the pride. Representing the Philippines once more, Reyes said their national identity fuels their fire.
“It’s an honor as always. Stepping on the court knowing we represent our country gives us extra motivation to play with heart and pride.”
In support of the local squads and to encourage more fans to attend, Sports Vision, the tournament organizer, announced reduced ticket prices for the knockout stages.
PLDT will need to bring their A-game if they are to topple Zhetysu and earn a place in the semifinals. The challenge is tall—literally and figuratively—but if Reyes’ words are any indication, the heart of the High Speed Hitters will be even bigger.
