Capital1 taps Russian outside hitter for PVL Reinforced Conference

New members of the Capital1 Solar Spikers pose with team owners Milka and Mandy Romero (3rd and 4th from left) in a recent gathering. They are (from left) Ayumi Furukawa, Marina Tushova, Iris Tolenada, Julia Ipac and Maria Shola Alvarez CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

MANILA Philippines — Capital1 Solar Energy hopes to add more excitement to Philippine volleyball by tapping the services of the young but explosive outside hitter from Russia and four battle-tested local players for the coming 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.

Russian import Marina Tushova was warmly welcomed by team owners Mandy and Milka Romero who are both convinced her Filipino-like fighting spirit is beneficial not only for the team but also for the sport which is enjoying tremendous popularity these days.

"We hope to bring more excitement to the fans that's why we took her and the four other local players," said Mandy Romero, who is slowly but surely transforming the Solar Spikers into one championship squad.

Apart from the four newcomers – Ayumi Furukawa, Iris Tolenada, Julia Ipac and Maria Shola Alvarez – the Romero sisters are also excited about the inaugural 2024 PVL Draft set on July 8 as they owned the No. 2 pick.

The two lovely sisters politely declined to reveal their prospect but coach Roger Gorayeb said he's not only looking for another outside hitter but one who can easily adapt to his system and style.

"Whoever coach Roger and team will pick, we are certain she must be good," said Milka Romero, oldest daughter of Rep. Mikee Romero (1Pacman) who once served as the godfather of PH amateur basketball.

The 26-year-old Tushova last saw action for Sparta Nizhny Novgorod back home but she had also stints in France and Switzerland.

She arrived in the country last June 10, and is right now, enjoying the Filipino hospitality. TMT