Captain Rachel Daquis and coach Branislav Moro of hosts PSL-F2 Logistics Manila mobbed by media ahead of the 2016 FIVB Club World Championship.
Manila, Philippines, Octotber 17, 2016 - They're outsiders and they know it. But for hosts PSL - F2 Logistics Manila and for volleyball in the country, the 2016 FIVB Club World Championship beginning Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena of the Philippines capital is a huge opportunity.
"This team has been together for only 25 days and I think it’s really difficult to work at a maximum," said Serbian coach Branislav Moro, who will guide this squad of Philippines Super League all stars strengthened by some international players from abroad.
Moro was speaking at a huge turnout of local and international media at the official press conference of the competition, on the eve of the opening day, when the hosts will face Brazil's Rexona Sesc Rio de Janeiro at 19.30 local time.
Local and international media scramble for an official picture of coaches and captains at the official Press Conference of the 2016 FIVB Club World Championship in Manila."It's a dream to play against a team like Rexona," continued the 59-year-old coach. "If I did not dream to reach this stage, then maybe I would not be a coach. All the other teams are certainly better than our team and I have big respect for these top players and coaches, but I believe that Philippine volleyball has already emerged a winner before the start of this tournament. My team is ready to step up in this tournament. I hope the Filipino fans will be able to support us in our first match and for the rest of the tournament."
The interest of the local media and the excitement of the fans, however, is taking its toll on the home side.
PSL - F2 Logistics Manila captain Rachel Daquis, who has been cleared to play on Tuesday against Rexona after recovering from an ankle injury over the weekend is feeling it.
"There is big pressure for us because we will face the best players in the world, but we are all excited because this is a great experience for us to help us in the future," she said addressing the media.
Quick links:
FIVB Volleyball Women's Club World Championship Manila 2016 - WebsiteFIVB Volleyball Women's Club World Championship Manila 2016 - Results & ScheduleFIVB Volleyball Women's Club World Championship Manila 2016 - Teams