VNL: Foreign stars relish passion of Filipino fans

Italy in action vs Czechia during a game in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) women’s week 2 at Philsports Arena in Pasig City. –VOLLEYBALL WORLD PHOTO

The stars of defending champion Italy and the United States relished their first time playing in the Philippines after their sides kicked off Volleyball Nations League (VNL) women’s week 2 action on Wednesday at PhilSports Arena.

For USA’s Jordan Thompson, it was fun to finally go to the Philippines after missing the first time the country hosted the league in 2022 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The 29-year-old opposite spiker was supposed to play in Manila in 2022, but she had COVID-19 during that time.

This time, Thompson finally got to experience the love of Filipino volleyball fans who saw her fire 15 points, as the Americans made quick work of the winless Dominican Republic, 25-20, 25-19, 25-12, for their third straight win.

“I was supposed to come here a few years ago when VNL was here, but I got COVID, so I couldn’t travel,” said Thompson. “But I’m really excited to be here, it’s been amazing.”

Italy tied USA at 4-1, record behind unbeaten Brazil and Japan after Kate Antropova fired six aces to finish with 21 points and lead Italy’s 25-18, 25-21, 25-22 sweep of Czechia.

The 6-foot-8 Antropova and her teammates also enjoyed their first time playing in the Philippines, taking selfies and signing autographs with the Filipino fans.

“It’s really nice. I’ve never been here. Unfortunately, we can’t walk around and see much. But we’ll hope that everyone is excited to watch more volleyball,” she said. “And we hope to see more crowds with games to come.”