PSL: League in Reboot Mode, Focuses on Development

Philippine Superliga (PSL) chairman Philip Ella Juico [PSL photo]

by Andy Fiel

Philippine Superliga (PSL) Chairman Philip Ella Juico remains upbeat despite the exodus of teams to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). The last club that made the jump was reigning champion F2 Logistics.

Regardless, the PSL chairman remains optimistic. He revealed in a special interview with Sports Bytes Philippines that the board has already started laying down the groundwork as they change the course of the organization. But through all this, one thing remains constant.

“We are remaining non-professional. That is a firm belief that we have,” Juico stated.

Chatting with reporters via Zoom, the PSL Chairman shared his thoughts on the direction the league will be taking.

Juico explained that they are keen on organizing tournaments at different levels. They will also continue with conferences aimed at club teams that may tap collegiate players.

“We are a post collegiate league. We will continue there because we have successfully created a niche,” he explained.

Juico also made it clear that he holds no ill-feelings on the teams moved to the PVL. He adds that he is proud that the league was able to contribute to their promotion and development over the last couple of years.

“Some of the teams that are in the pro league (PVL) now were developed by us for the last four years,” Juico said.

“It is seen even in the comments (online) of the players and the teams themselves when they said thank you. Players like Abi Marano, Dawn Macandili, and the Sta. Lucia squad brought us touching messages, and we acknowledge that,” he added.

With the PVL finalizing a deal with Cignal the PSL board was free to find a new media partner and expand their reach through different social media platforms.

“Right now we are trying to finalize an agreement with GMA 7. Essential to the development of volleyball is media, mainstream and the different platforms, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and several others. So we are working to ensure maximum viewership.” The chairman said.

One of the questions raised in the podcast concerning future tournaments, specifically indoor, and the likelihood of one organized within the year.

“Very likely we will have indoor. Inaayos pa ung detalye. Sana itong una mga Mayo. First week of May, ung pangalawa August. Hopefully humupa na ung pandemic by that time,” Juico explained.

“Malamang wala munang beach volleyball until next year.” He added.

To end the interview, Juico touched on the hardships that have plagued the country and local businesses since last year.

“It has really been a very difficult year for everyone and we are trying our best to adjust to the situation. Although the corporations are having a difficult time we just have to give them the opportunity to get their investment back,” Juico quipped.

The full interview can be viewed below.

Author
Recent Posts

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.