By ADRIAN STEWART CO

With several players from the PLDT High Speed Hitters unavailable, Negrense Kiesha Bedonia seized the spotlight in the ongoing Premier Volleyball League (PVL) on Tour.

Missing the services of Savannah Davison, who remains in Canada, rookie Alleiah Malaluan, and former regulars Erika Santos and Fiola Ceballos, PLDT turned to its bench — and Bedonia answered the call with a career-defining outing.

The 22-year-old outside hitter finished with 14 points built on 10 attacks, two blocks and two aces during the High Speed Hitters’ straight-set victory against the Farm Fresh Foxies on Tuesday, July 1.

“Nung una pa lang po, pagbalik namin, nasabihan na ako ni coach na i-prepare ko lang ‘yung sarili ko mentally and physically,” Bedonia shared after the game. 

“Kasi maraming umalis sa amin. Doble rin ‘yung training ko, pati physical at mental ko, inayos ko talaga,” she added.

Despite the pressure of stepping into a bigger role, the former V-League Collegiate Challenge Best Outside Hitter maintained her composure, but admitted that the mental demands were particularly challenging.

“Sobrang hirap po, lalo na mentally,” Bedonia said. 

“Tuwing gabi, inaaral ko po talaga ‘yung mga plays. Kinabukasan, kailangan i-prepare mo na ‘yung sarili mo para sa gagawin mo sa loob ng court,” she added.

Beyond the win, Bedonia highlighted the significance of the PVL on Tour for PLDT’s bench players, calling it a valuable opportunity to gain confidence and prove their worth.

“Para sa ‘kin, sobrang laking bagay nito kasi nabo-boost talaga ‘yung confidence namin, lalo na kaming mga sub lang po,” she said. 

“Binigyan po kami ng chance para mapakita kung ano ‘yung kaya namin at kung paano kami makakatulong sa team,” she concluded./ASC, WDJ 

Caption

KIESHA BEDONIA (PVL photo)