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Tag: Pauline Gaston

  • Pauline Gaston takes the lead as Capital1 ushers in a new era 

    Pauline Gaston takes the lead as Capital1 ushers in a new era 

    Leadership often arrives quietly.

     

    For the Capital1 Solar Spikers, it comes in the form of a veteran who has spent years building a reputation as a dependable presence at the net and in the locker room.

     

    As the franchise prepares for what could be its most ambitious campaign yet, Capital1 has officially named Pauline Gaston as its new team captain for the 2026 Premier Volleyball League season, placing one of its most experienced players at the forefront of a rapidly evolving roster.

     

    The appointment signals more than a change in leadership. It reflects the direction the Solar Spikers are taking as they continue their transformation from expansion team to legitimate contender.

     

    Gaston arrived in Capital1 earlier this year after the disbandment of Chery Tiggo Crossovers, becoming one of several veteran acquisitions brought in to accelerate the team’s growth. The former Chery Tiggo middle blocker was part of an aggressive recruitment drive that saw Capital1 add experienced names such as Jasmine Nabor, Shaya Adorador, Cherry Nunag, and others in an effort to surround its young core with proven talent.

     

    Now, Gaston assumes an even larger role.Her promotion comes at a pivotal time for the franchise, which has undergone one of the biggest roster overhauls in the league while continuing to build around reigning PVL Press Corps Rookie of the Year Bella Belen. 

     

    The Solar Spikers further strengthened their lineup this offseason with the arrivals of former Cignal standouts Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, while also selecting two-time UAAP Best Libero Detdet Pepito in the PVL Draft.

     

    The expectation is clear: Capital1 is no longer simply developing for the future. It wants to compete now.

     

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    Gaston’s leadership credentials have been evident throughout her career. Known for her versatility and ability to contribute both as a middle blocker and wing attacker, she has become one of the stabilizing figures in Capital1’s frontline rotation. Coaches and teammates have frequently leaned on her experience as the franchise navigates its rapid rise in the PVL.

     

    For a team loaded with youthful stars and high-profile newcomers, the captaincy places Gaston in charge of balancing expectations while helping shape the identity of a roster many believe could emerge as one of the league’s biggest stories this season.

     

    Capital1’s front office has long maintained that building a winning culture would take time. But with an increasingly stacked lineup and one of the most active offseasons in recent PVL memory, the timeline appears to be accelerating.

     

    And as the Solar Spikers prepare for the challenges ahead, they will do so under the guidance of a player tasked with leading one of the PVL’s most intriguing transformations.

     

    For Gaston, the responsibility is simple: help turn potential into results. 

     

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  • Sisi Rondina, Pauline Gaston star in beach volleyball showcase as Sipalay embraces BVR tour 

    Sisi Rondina, Pauline Gaston star in beach volleyball showcase as Sipalay embraces BVR tour 

    What unfolded in Sipalay over the weekend was more than just another stop in the Beach Volleyball Republic tour.

     

    It became a celebration of how far beach volleyball has grown in the Philippines.

     

    With fans crowding the shores of Poblacion Beach, national team stars and rising pairs delivered high-level matches that turned the BVR On Tour Sipalay Open into one of the liveliest events of the season.

     

    At the center of it all was the Alas Pilipinas tandem of Sisi Rondina and Dij Rodriguez, who  powered through a grueling women’s division en route to a perfect five-match sweep.

     

    The pair survived a tough challenge from Kat Epa and Kizil Quijote in the finals, recovering from a first-set loss to pull off a 19-21, 21-13, 15-6 victory.

     

    Before that, Rondina and Rodriguez also had to outlast fellow Southeast Asian Games gold medalists Sunny Villapando and Gen Eslapor in a hard-fought semifinal showdown.

     

    For Rondina, the atmosphere in Sipalay stood out just as much as the title itself.

     

    “Unti-unting nakikilala talaga ang beach volleyball sa Pilipinas. We are hoping na maraming liga na ganito. Hindi lang sa Sipalay, pati sa buong Pipinas,” said Rondina, who collected her sixth BVR On Tour title.

     

    Rodriguez, meanwhile, secured her fourth tour championship.

     

    The men’s division also produced a redemption story as Ranran Abdilla and Ronniel Rosales bounced back from an earlier elimination-round defeat to overcome Edwin Tolentino and Lerry Francisco in the finals, 21-23, 21-18, 15-7.

     

    The victory gave Abdilla and Rosales their second BVR title together this year after also ruling the Nuvali Open in March.

     

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    Beyond the championship matches, the tournament also highlighted returning and emerging partnerships.

     

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers duo of Pauline Gaston and Roma Mae Doromal impressed despite an early exit, earning praise after pushing veteran pair Bea Tan and Fille Cayetano in a competitive straight-set battle.

     

    “Actually we are very grateful sa experience na maglaro kami together. Nakakasabay kami sa level ng competition. Binigyan din namin ng magandang fight ang kalaban,” Doromal said.

     

    “Ang dami-dami naming natutunan and we are so excited for more BVR appearances,” she added.

     

    Gaston also credited Doromal’s leadership throughout their campaign.

     

    “Nakakapag-in game adjustment kami, which is I’m so proud naman. In game kami magde-decide na magba-block ako Roms (Doromal), anong gagawin naming defensive patterns. Yung mga strategies namin, nailabas which is I’m proud kasi. Siya (Doromal) ang nagiging coach ko, siya yung nagle-lead sa akin. I’m happy and that’s why she’s the Capital1 team captain, I let her lead and I trust her,” Gaston said.

     

    Even in defeat, Doromal appreciated the chance to share the sand with players they once only looked up to.

     

    “It’s a privilege talaga to play against them kasi mga idols po namin, nilu-look up po namin. I’m happy na nasa same court kami,” she said.

     

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  • PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    In the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), postgame interviews have become just as compelling as the matches themselves, especially when certain players stand out not only for their performance on the court but also for how they express themselves off it. Some athletes come across as well-spoken in interviews because of a combination of preparation, experience, and natural communication skills. Many teams also provide media training, helping players learn how to answer questions clearly, stay composed under pressure, and represent their squad professionally in front of the media.

     

    Over time, repeated exposure to high-pressure situations plays a major role in shaping how athletes communicate. Veteran players become more comfortable processing emotions quickly and responding with clarity even after intense matches. A deeper understanding of the game also adds substance to their answers, allowing them to break down strategies, momentum shifts, and key moments in a more insightful way.

     

    Jia De Guzman 

     

    Jia De Guzman of the Creamline Cool Smashers continues to set the standard for articulate leadership in the PVL. As Creamline’s veteran setter and Alas Pilipinas captain, she is consistently present in postgame interviews where she explains matches with calm precision. In Creamline’s ongoing Finals run, where they already secured Game 1 against Cignal, De Guzman delivered 22 excellent sets and added four points, showing her control on both ends of the game. 


    Her ability to break down tactical details reflects years of experience dating back to her Ateneo Lady Eagles days. Beyond the court, she has also been vocal on national team concerns, speaking firmly yet calmly about athlete welfare and structured competition.

     

    Vanie Gandler 

     

    Vanie Gandler of the Cignal HD Spikers is another player known for her composed and thoughtful postgame presence. In Cignal’s Finals campaign in the PVL All-Filipino Conference, she remains one of the team’s key scorers, finishing Game 1 against Creamline with 17 attack points and 10 receptions. 

     

    Despite the tough loss, Gandler maintains a positive and reflective tone in interviews, often focusing on resilience, mindset, and improvement. A former Ateneo Lady Eagle like De Guzman, she carries collegiate discipline into her professional career, balancing competitiveness with maturity in her responses.

     

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    Fifi Sharma

     

    Fifi Sharma of the Akari Chargers is known for her structured and straightforward way of speaking after matches. She avoids unnecessary filler and often explains not just what happened, but why it happened. Although Akari fell short of a semifinal spot in the PVL All-Filipino Conference after being eliminated by Creamline in the playoffs, Sharma remained composed in postgame discussions, focusing on clarity and accountability. 

     

    A former De La Salle University standout, she brings UAAP-level discipline into her professional career. She has also occasionally worked as a commentator in PVL games, where her technical understanding of volleyball adds depth to her analysis.

     

    Kim Kianna Dy

     

    Kim Kianna Dy of the PLDT High Speed Hitters is often noted for her relaxed, conversational interview style. In PLDT’s recent PVL All-Filipino Conference bronze medal series, she contributed 16 points in a dramatic five-set Game 1 win over Farm Fresh. Dy’s speaking style often blends English and Filipino naturally or what they usually say “conyo”. 

     

    Reflecting a casual but confident media presence developed through her years with De La Salle University, where she experienced championship runs and MVP-level attention. Despite the informal tone, she remains clear in explaining game flow and consistently highlights teamwork and support from her squad.

     

    Ponggay Gaston

     

    Ponggay Gaston of the Capital1 Solar Spikers stands out for her energetic and engaging communication style. Known for her humor, personality, and great banter, she is also well known as a commentator in volleyball games. As a commentator, she brings the game to life through clear, engaging, and knowledgeable narration. She has a strong understanding of volleyball tactics and demonstrates excellent timing, knowing when to step in with analysis and when to let the excitement of a rally speak for itself. 

     

    A former Ateneo Lady Eagle, Gaston combines confidence with relatability when speaking to the media. While Capital1 fell short in the PVL Play-In round against Galeries Tower and missed the semifinals, she remained expressive and reflective in postgame interviews, balancing honesty with optimism.

     

    Across these players, one clear pattern emerges: being well-spoken is shaped by experience, collegiate development, leadership roles, and repeated exposure to high-pressure matches. Whether as champions, contenders, or rising talents, their words reflect not only performance—but also growth, awareness, and maturity as professional athletes.

     

    Their collegiate backgrounds also play a significant role in shaping how confidently and articulately they communicate. All of the players mentioned come from two of the most prestigious universities in the country, Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University—both part of the UAAP and known for producing elite volleyball talents. These programs have long been recognized for honing not only athletic excellence but also discipline, leadership, and communication skills, helping shape professional athletes who are just as composed off the court as they are competitive on it.

     

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  • Power Pairs: Athlete Couples Making Waves in Philippine Sports

    Power Pairs: Athlete Couples Making Waves in Philippine Sports

    Behind every buzzer-beater, clutch set, and highlight reel, some of Philippine sports’ brightest stars are also navigating something just as challenging and rewarding: relationships with fellow athletes. Here’s a closer look at some of the most compelling athlete power couples in the Philippines, where love and elite competition intersect.

     

    Harold Alarcon & Roma Mae Doromal — UP Basketball × PVL Volleyball

     

    Harold Alarcon has become one of the UAAP’s most exciting guards, starring for the UP Fighting Maroons with multiple championship runs and clutch performances in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. A versatile shooter and scorer, Alarcon’s late-game heroics have been pivotal in UP’s quest for titles and deep playoff pushes.

     

    Standing alongside him is Roma Mae Doromal, a dynamic wing for the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League. Doromal has transitioned smoothly from her collegiate days in Ateneo to professional volleyball competition, known for her athleticism and scoring bursts. Together, they represent a rare basketball–volleyball pairing rooted in mutual respect and shared drive — juggling the demands of UAAP basketball and PVL schedules while supporting each other’s growth in elite sport.

     

    Dwight Ramos & Kianna Dy — International Hoops × Pro Volleyball

     

    When it comes to playing on big stages, Dwight Ramos and Kianna Dy are among the country’s most recognizable names.

     

    Ramos, a Filipino-American guard now with Levanga Hokkaido in Japan’s B.League, has worn the national colors with distinction, including at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and other international tournaments. His scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility have made him a key piece for both club and Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    Dy, one of the Philippines’ premier volleyball talents, serves as an opposite hitter for the PLDT High Speed Hitters, bringing firepower and leadership to the PVL. A veteran of the national team and multiple pro seasons, Dy’s all-around game has helped elevate PLDT’s competitive profile, being one of the cornerstones for their back-to-back championships in 2025.

     

    Their relationship spans borders and sports seasons. Ramos has been known to cheer Dy courtside — even flying back from international duty to support her in standout PVL matchups. Together, they balance performance pressures and public profiles as two of Philippine sports’ most visible young talents.

     

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    Francis Escandor & Pauline Gaston — Rising Together in Basketball and Volleyball

     

    Young athletes on rapid ascents, Francis Escandor and Pauline Gaston reflect determination and growth in different arenas. Escandor has made his presence felt with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, showing scoring potential and maturity as he adapts to the PBA’s physical demands. His emergence from supporting cast to impactful contributor highlights his development on the hardwood.

     

    Gaston, meanwhile, is carving her own path with her new team the Capital1 Solar Spikers after Chery Tiggo disbanded in late 2025, adding offensive punch and versatility to the team’s rotation. As they navigate pro careers in separate sports, Escandor and Gaston find common ground in the grind — rising through competitive systems and pushing toward personal and team goals with each season.

     

    Deanna Wong & Ivy Lacsina — Volleyball’s Dynamic Duo

     

    Two standout volleyball athletes, Deanna Wong and Ivy Lacsina, bring different strengths to their respective teams. Wong, a veteran setter for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, is widely respected for her court vision, leadership, and ability to run complex offenses at the professional level.

    Lacsina, a powerful presence for the Akari Chargers, contributes both offense and net dominance with her attacking prowess. 

     

    Their relationship exemplifies how elite performers can support each other while still competing at the highest level — sharing insights, handling travel schedules, and celebrating milestones together amid demanding volleyball seasons.

     

    LA Revilla & Denden Lazaro — Veteran Partners in Hoops and Spikes

     

    Sometimes love takes shape through longevity and shared history in sport. LA Revilla, a former PBA ballplayer turned assistant coach for the UE Red Warriors, has transitioned from pro play to mentoring the next generation of talent, carrying his on-court savvy to the sidelines.

     

    His partner, Denden Lazaro, is a decorated libero for the Creamline Cool Smashers, known for her consistent defense, quick reads, and leadership on the court that helped Creamline secure multiple titles. Their shared journey from athlete life to evolving roles beyond active competition reflects maturity, mutual respect, and a love that’s grown with their respective careers.

     

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  • Former Chery Tiggo standouts Mylene Paat and Pauline Gaston find new homes with SGA, Capital1 

    Former Chery Tiggo standouts Mylene Paat and Pauline Gaston find new homes with SGA, Capital1 

     The aftershocks of Chery Tiggo’s sudden exit from the PVL continue to reshape the league’s landscape, with two more familiar faces from the defunct franchise securing new paths ahead of the upcoming season.

     

    Veteran opposite spiker Mylene Paat and middle blocker Pauline Gaston have emerged as the latest beneficiaries of an unusually active offseason, finding new homes as teams scramble to strengthen their rosters following Chery Tiggo’s disbandment last month.

     

    Paat, a proven scorer and championship-tested presence, is set to join the Strong Group Athletics camp, where she could potentially suit up for either ZUS Coffee or Farm Fresh. 

     

    Her arrival adds instant credibility to any frontline she anchors, especially given her history as part of Chery Tiggo’s golden run during the 2021 Open Conference, where the Crossovers stunned Creamline in a five-set thriller to claim the first-ever PVL professional title.

     

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    Gaston, meanwhile, heads to Capital1, continuing the Solar Spikers’ aggressive rebuild. The former Crosser spent the last two seasons with Chery Tiggo after joining the club in 2023, and now becomes part of a growing wave of ex-Chery Tiggo standouts relocating to new environments.

     

    Capital1, in particular, has quickly turned into a landing spot for former Crossovers. Jasmine Nabor and Shaya Adorador have already committed to the Solar Spikers, signaling a clear intent to inject experience and chemistry into a young roster navigating its next phase.

     

    As Chery Tiggo fades into league history, its former core is rapidly being redistributed across the PVL—altering team identities, competitive balance, and storylines heading into the new season.

     

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