Defending champion Cignal, with a revamped lineup, sets the stage for its title-retention campaign, facing PGJC-Navy while Air Force tests Richmarc Sports 3B’s mettle in a pair of riveting clashes kicking off the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
Despite missing key players from the previous season, the HD Spikers remain a formidable force, led by last year’s Open MVP Jau Umandal and top acquisition Bryan Bagunas, who, however, is still with Win Streak in Taiwan’s Top Volleyball League
They collide with a motivated Navy side, anchored by the veteran duo of Joeven dela Vega and Greg Dolor and handled by new coach George Pascua.
Gametime is ast 6 p.m.
Cignal mentor Dexter Clamor expressed excitement about the expanded roster of participating teams but is determined to defend their crown. Adding depth to the squad are Ron Rosales, Cian Silang, Giles Torres, Nas Gwaza, Vince Lorenzo, and Madz Gampong.
“We are very much excited for this conference kasi mas maraming teams na kasali and of course, we will do our best to defend our crown,” said Clamor.
But the Navy Sealions, undeterred by the HD Spikers’ reputation, aim to showcase solid performances, relying on the experience and skills of dela Vega and Dolor.
Air Force and Richmarc Sports 3B, meanwhile, collide in the 4 p.m. opener with the Airmen, led by Ranran Abdilla, who fired a league-record of 47 points in the 2023 Invitational, hoping to set the tone for their campaign, backed by former beach volleyball teammates James Buytrago and Pol Salvador.
On the other hand, the Elite Spikers, with key players middle Bonjomar Castel, libero Carlo Almario and setter Ralph Imperial, aim to make a statement in the tournament.
Meanwhile, the Spikers’ Turf is re-introducing the “Bring a Friend” promo, allowing fans to purchase one lower box ticket and bring a friend for free. Ticket prices are set at P320 for games at Rizal Memorial, Philsports Arena, and Sta. Rosa Sports Complex.
For games at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig, a Patron (P420) or Lower Box (P320) will get a customer and his friend a ticket.
On the other hand, patron tickets at Rizal Memorial, Philsports Arena, and Sta. Rosa Sports Complex are priced at P420 while tickets at Paco Arena is set at P220.
Tickets can be purchased through ticketmax.ph.
Games will be broadcasted live at One Sports and One Sports+, and will be streamed at the Pilipinas Live App.
