STRONG Group Athletics (SGA) is expanding its horizon as it fields the newest team in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
LOOK:
The Frank Lao-owned squad announced on Saturday that it is joining the pioneering volleyball pro league by taking over the defunct Gerflor Defenders franchise, which will become the sister club of the Farm Fresh Foxies.
READ: BDL, Denden transfer will be one of last deals between PVL sister teams
With two PVL squads, Strong Group has become one of the most high-profile brands in sports. Lao also has ties with the Benilde and Letran programs in the NCAA and Converge in the PBA while his SGA squad, led by many-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard, is set to compete in the Dubai International Basketball Championship.
For Lao, joining the PVL was a ‘no-brainer’ in pursuit of opening more doors for up-and-coming volleyball stars to fortify the future of the sport.
"Putting up a second team in the Premier Volleyball League is a no-brainer for us. The PVL has been a consistent source of entertainment for fans of all ages, and we are excited to contribute to the league in whatever way we can,” said Lao.
"Having a second team will lead to more opportunities for Filipino volleyball players and coaches," he said.
"We believe in the potential of our athletes, and by providing additional platforms for them to showcase their talents, we are contributing to the growth of volleyball in the country,” Lao added.
'Bold step' forward
PVL president Ricky Palou lauded Lao’s ‘bold step’ in launching a second league club — indicative of their longstanding commitment to the growth and development Philippine volleyball.
"We are truly thankful to Frank Lao and Strong Group Athletics for not only helping pay the salaries of the Gerflor Defenders last year but also for taking the bold step of starting a second team in the PVL.
“This shows their strong commitment to the development and success of volleyball in the Philippines,” said Palou.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
