Capital1 Solar Spikers Roger Gorayeb during the PVL Rookie Draft combine. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Capital1 coach Roger Gorayab is happy to have a number of “good options” with the Solar Spikers holding the No. 2 pick in the inaugural PVL Rookie Draft set for July 8.
Gorayeb knows exactly what he is looking for in a player who could potentially change the fate of the Solar Spikers, who joined the PVL just earlier in the year.
“Of course, I’m happy because I have good options. I’m thankful we got lucky with the second pick.” said Gorayeb, who attended the final day of the combine on Wednesday at GameVille Ball Park. “
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“I’m looking at the height, the one who could fit into my system, the one I think can adjust easily, that’s what’s good.
With Thea Gagate emerging as the presumptive No.1 pick of ZUS Coffee, Gorayeb has two players in mind for the second pick but he didn’t disclose them to avoid preempting the draft he has high hopes for the aspirant, who will be part of his team.
“We have [target player], but we need to discuss first. I will study which one will benefit us more. It’s a secret for now.,” he said. “I see a big help this player can give us, and I will train her well. I already have someone in mind.”
Gorayeb is also eyeing to add more players to their young roster in the succeeding rounds, looking to add a middle blocker and a libero.
READ: PVL: Set for No. 2 pick, Capital1 also parades Russian spiker
“We’re focusing now on the second round. What should we pick, a middle or a libero? We’re a bit short in that area. The middle position is very important,” the veteran coach said.
“We need an immediate threat in the middle so our outside hitters can have space. Without a threat in the middle and just focusing on outside sets, our attackers will be blocked often.”
Even before the PVL Draft, Gorayeb signed Shola Alvarez and Julia Ipac from Galeries as well as veteran setter Iris Tolenada as they look to rise from a 1-10 record in the All-Filipino Conference.
“Shola is a big factor, especially since I’m used to her from when she was my player before. She’s comfortable with me, and Jorelle, her former teammates, are still there. Shola is a huge asset offensively. Even defensively, she’s solid. Our team’s composition is really coming together nicely,” the Capital1 coach said.
“I really expect us to elevate our game by two to three levels.”
Gorayeb is also pleased with Russian import Marina Tushova’s connection to her teammates, especially to setter Tolenada.
“Marina easily jelled with us because she’s almost the same age as the younger players. Our bond with her became really good. She also blends well with the players like a local. She’s not picky,” he said.
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“She fits in perfectly because Iris [Tolenada] is a huge asset. Her leadership and experience bring a lot to the team.”