Redemption, reinvention highlight Reinforced tilt
In the PVL Reinforced Conference, the second time around isn’t just sweeter—it’s hungrier.
Bella Belen calls it her “2.0 version.”
The former UAAP MVP and top pick for Capital1 makes her pro debut on Tuesday at Ynares Center Montalban, ready to take on the next chapter of her already decorated career.
“I’d say I’m still the same Bella,” she said, “but more aggressive now. I know I’ll learn a lot from the veterans, but I also want to show what I can do.”
It will be the second time a heavy load will be put on Belen’s shoulders, after carrying the National University program on her shoulders in college. But she’s clear-eyed about the step up in competition.
“There’s pressure, but I take that as a privilege,” said Belen, who was part of the young core that led Alas Pilipinas to podium finishes internationally. “It just means I have the opportunity to prove what I can do for the team.”
With Ukrainian spiker Oleksandra Bytsenko and coach Jorge Souza de Brito backing her, Belen leads a young Solar Spikers squad hoping to disrupt the balance of power.
Petro Gazz’s Lindsey Vander Weide knows what it’s like to reach the summit—and wants another shot. The 2022 Best Import and Finals MVP returns to the PVL after stints in Puerto Rico and the US, now reuniting with former college teammate and current MVP Brooke Van Sickle. “I always wanted to come back,” she said. “The timing was finally right.”
Vander Weide and Van Sickle formed a fearsome duo at Oregon. Now, they’re aiming to run it back—this time in red and white.
“Brooke’s a huge arm. I’m a big arm. We did a lot of big things in college, and I know we can do it again,” said Vander Weide.
Van Sickle has her own second act—this time with her parents on the sidelines. Dad Gary is now Petro Gazz head coach, mom Lisa the assistant. “It’s amazing to have them here,” Brooke said. “We separate being family from being coach and player. Once we step on the court, it’s all business.”
And then there’s Marlee Smith of Choco Mucho, who promises a more passionate return after a brief but electric appearance last May as a reinforcement for a Thai squad that played here.
“You’ll see a more compassionate, committed Marlee this time,” she said. “I want to leave a bigger impact.”
