Returning veteran Sisi Rondina will play a huge role in Choco Mucho’s campaign for a breakthrough podium finish in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference.
Flying Titans head coach Dante Alinsurin is thrilled to have the former University Athletic Association of the Philippines Most Valuable Player for the mid-season tournament set to begin on 29 June.
The University of Santo Tomas winger was formally introduced as the newest Choco Mucho recruit on Saturday, marking her return to indoor volleyball after a four-year stint with beach volleyball where she found success in local and international stages.
“Sisi will give us a huge boost in our campaign,” Alinsunurin told Daily Tribune.
“She’s a big help for us especially since Sisi is an all-around player.”
The 26-year-old open spiker is making her debut in the professional club scene and is set to see action for the first time since her last stint with Petron in 2019 in the defunct Philippine Superliga.
Aside from her scoring prowess, the Cebuana hotshot is also known for her superb floor defense and unquestionable passion, leadership and heart for the game.
Rondina will further strengthen the wing rotation of Choco Mucho, which has yet to step on the podium since joining the league back in 2019, as she joins former college rivals Kat Tolentino, Des Cheng, Isa Molde and Regine Arocha.
After taking a leave of absence from indoor volleyball, Rondina focused her beach volleyball career where she collected numerous local titles and delivered honor to the country in the international arena.
Her tandem with Bernadeth Pons resulted in back-to-back bronze medal finishes in the 30th Manila in 2019 and 31st Hanoi Southeast Asian Games in 2022.
She then paired with Jovelyn Gonzaga to win the gold medal in the Subic leg of the World Beach Pro Tour last year.
Pons has joined Creamline while Gonzaga re-signed with Cignal.
“It’s great to have Sisi on our team because of her vast international exposure and numerous achievements which I think she would bring into the team,” Alinsunurin said of his newest winger.
Rondina, who led UST to a runner-up finish in UAAP Season 81 four years ago, said she feels great joining the club.
“I’m happy with how the coaches, the management and my teammates welcomed me with open arms,” Rondina said.
“In terms of chemistry, we’re getting there. I’m going to give my best effort and work hard to contribute to my team.”
