PVL backs national duties of Gagate, Coronel

The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) has shown its support for Thea Gagate and Julia Coronel of Alas Pilipinas, allowing them flexibility to manage their commitments to the Philippine Women’s National Volleyball Team during the second day of the Rookie Draft Combine.

With the team preparing rigorously for the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup, scheduled from July 4-7, Gagate and Coronel were excused from further participation after completing one scrimmage game due to the physical demands of national team practices.

“Due to the hectic national team commitments leading up to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup, the PVL has decided to limit the involvement of Alas Pilipinas members Thea Gagate and Julia Coronel on the second day of the Rookie Draft Combine,” PVL commissioner Sherwin Malonzo said. “The PVL fully supports the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and the national women’s team program.”

During the first scrimmage of the day, Coronel teamed up with Leila Cruz, Lucille Almonte, Razel Aldea, and Karen Verdeflor, competing against Gagate, Maicah Larroza, Roma Mae Doromal, Nikka Yandoc, Pierre Abellana, and Steph Bustrillo.

Both players were actively involved on the first day of the Combine held on Tuesday. Coronel excelled with a top score of 27.78 inches in the standard vertical jump, securing second place in both the vertical jump with approach (316.0 cm) and standing broad jump (248.9 cm). Gagate led in physical metrics with a height of 189 cm and wingspan of 185 cm. She also topped the vertical jump with approach, achieving an impressive 317.0 cm.

The PVL’s support highlights the league’s commitment to the development of volleyball in the country, ensuring that national team players can balance their responsibilities effectively. ​​