LEILA Cruz is leaving the only professional club she has known.
The 26-year-old, 6-foot-1 former La Salle and Alas Pilipinas opposite is making a surprise move to PLDT for the new PVL season, ending her two-year stint with Capital1.
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Cruz was the Solar Spikers’ second overall pick in the inaugural PVL Draft two years ago, making the move to the High Speed Hitters the first transfer of her professional career.
But injuries also limited Cruz’s playing time in recent years, keeping her from fully establishing herself in Capital1’s rotation.
High-speed move
Her situation could have become even more difficult with the Solar Spikers integrating Erika Santos at opposite. Santos’ arrival is expected to lock one wing spot, potentially leaving Cruz with limited minutes had she opted to stay.
Coincidentally, Santos was also a former PLDT player, making the two opposites’ paths cross in an unexpected way as Cruz moves to the High Speed Hitters while Santos takes on a bigger role with Capital1.
Cruz, meanwhile, will join a PLDT squad boasting a strong La Salle core.
She will reunite with former La Salle teammate Alleiah Malaluan while joining fellow Lady Spikers alumni Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, Kim Fajardo, Mika Reyes and Jessa Ordiales.
The move gives Cruz a familiar environment as she looks to carve out a bigger role with the High Speed Hitters.
Before turning pro, Cruz played for La Salle and later earned a spot with Alas Pilipinas, where she also saw action as an opposite.
Now, after two seasons with Capital1, Cruz gets her first professional change of scenery and a chance to reset her career with PLDT.
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