Champion player for a champion brand
The championship-winning Chery Tiggo Crossovers is one of the most remarkable teams in the Premier Volleyball League(PVL).
And no one knows this better than Pauline “Ponggay” Gaston, who went from being captain of the formidable Ateneo Lady Eagles to joining Chery Auto Philippines’ hard-hitting volleyball team in 2023.
“I chose Chery because around that time in my life, I was looking for a change of environment so that I could grow outside my comfort zone,” she told Inquirer Mobility in an exclusive interview.
“It was Chery that seemed very assertive with them having me on their team,” the 27-year-old Ilongga added. “They are also the first-ever PVL champions in 2021, so they have a history of winning.”
Going for gold
Gaston said she aims to help the team win more medals, as well as inspire a new generation of volleyball players who want to go pro.
“I have a great relationship with all my coaches, teammates, and the management,” she said. “I believe it’s important to always treat everyone with kindness and respect. Everyone in Chery is so supportive and we always look out for one another.”
Gaston added that she is extremely grateful for the support of the United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI), the mother company of Chery Auto Philippines that is helmed by industry veteran Rommel Sytin.
“We may not always give the end results to our management, but they continue to give and do what’s best for all the players,” said the team’s number 22. “I would say they are very generous to us and treat us like professionals.”
Chery On Top
Named after the carmaker’s well-priced vehicles, the Chery Tiggo Crossovers has been the home of our country’s volleyball greats like Dindin Santiago, Jaja Santiago, Mylene Paat, and current team captain Abigail Marano.
Gaston said she is guided by the team’s mantra – “Chery On Top!”
“This means we should always try and achieve to be the best at everything we do, whether inside or outside the court,” the veteran athlete said. “Chery Tiggo, both the brand and the team, are extremely competitive. We may not always achieve it, but we won’t give up without a fight to reach our goals!”
With team spirit like Ponggay’s, it’s no wonder that Chery Auto Philippines holds a bright future in the court and on the road.
