PVL: F2 Logistics entry raises stakes, Cool Smashers await challenge

The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) acquired a unique problem – how to deal with twelve (12) teams at the Inspire Sports Academy bubble.

Some teams transferred progressively over the past weeks, all happening after the PVL was given a license to operate as a professional league.

The new status plus a fresh television deal with Cignal were enough to attract several professional teams. Some of those teams came from the Philippine Superliga (PSL).

The relocation of some volleyball teams raised the stock of the PVL in the eyes of the national volleyball community. Also, it generated renewed interest due to old rivalries.

Reigning PSL champion F2 Logistics, led by DLSU head coach Ramil De Jesus, was the last team to join the PVL. Their inclusion undoubtedly raised the level of competition. However, there is nothing more intriguing than to see F2 Logistics match up with the 2019 open conference champion Creamline Cool Smashers under coach Tai Bundit.

The challenges in organizing a series of games under the bubble will be immense. The capacity of the venue for a delegation that has grown significantly in the past few months could be a source of unease for the organizers.

Beyond these, it is the anticipation of volleyball fans who are eager to watch the best players in the country to once again see action after more than a year of inactivity.

It will be interesting to follow the progress of the league moving forward. What is a given is that the PVL must address the problems brought by two distinct surges, the wave of teams they have acquired and the climbing tide of the pandemic.

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Andy Fiel

Writer at Sports Bytes PH

Andy Fiel has been involved in sports for the past forty years. He played in the streets as a young baller, became a two sport athlete, coached in multiple age levels, and headed the athletics department of different institutions. His rich experience shaped his written word.