Seven Spikers’ Turf stars will lead Alas Pilipinas Men in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Men, set from June 2 to 9 in Isa Town, Bahrain.
The national team boasts a formidable lineup with five players from the reigning Open Conference champion, Cignal: Jau Umandal, Joshua Retamar, Vince Lorenzo, Lloyd Josafat, and JP Bugaoan.
Joining them are Marck Espejo and Kim Malabunga from rival team Criss Cross, along with free agent Nico Almendras.
The team will face host Bahrain and FIVB Challengers Cup host China in Pool A.
Complementing the professional players are some of the brightest stars from the UAAP.
Two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Josh Ybanez from the University of Santo Tomas will make his national team debut, alongside NU stalwarts Jade Disquitado, Rwenzmel Taguibolos, Joseph Bello, and Leo Ordiales. De La Salle University’s lead spiker Noel Kampton rounds out the squad.
Coaching the team is Ateneo head coach Sergio Veloso, with assistance from NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin, UST head coach Odjie Mamon, and Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor.
