WHEN IT comes to beach volleyball, Cebu has established itself as a force to be reckoned with owing to the success of its players in the Nestea Beach Volley tournament.
With the PLDT Home Ultera Philippine Superliga (PSL) Beach Volleyball Challenge Cup 2015 set to kick off on July 18 at the Sands by the Bay at the SM Mall of Asia, several Cebuano players hope to live up to the lofty expectations.
Representing Cebu on the men’s side are former University of the Visayas stud Jade Becaldo and Hachaliah Gilbuena, who will be representing SM By the Bay Team A, reigning Nestea Beach Volley champion Edmar Bonono and Sandy Montero of Cignal A and former University of Southern Philippines-Foundation ace Emmanuel Luces and Jay dela Cruz of Cignal B.
According to Luces, who also spent time coaching for Southwestern University after his collegiate playing years were done, he and his partner are focusing on their rhythm and chemistry. Should these work out, Luces asserted that a finish in the top four would not be far off.
“If our training goes well, then I think we have what it takes to go for the championship,” said Luces.
Over on the distaff side, Cebuana Danika Gendrauli is representing Gilligan’s along with Norie Diaz.
PSL president Ramon “Tats” Suzara said all 12 teams in the women’s division will be divided into four groups, where they will determine their ranking in the pool play.
The top two teams in each group will advance to the crossover quarterfinals with the winners moving to the semifinals. The survivors of the knockout semis will engage in a winner-take-all final duel on August 8.
Suzara said format for the men’s division has yet to be finalized.