Kim Fajardo's move to PLDT proved to be a nerve-wracking experience at first, but it gradually became easier thanks to fellow setter Rhea Dimaculangan, coach Rald Ricafort and the rest of the High Speed Hitters.
For the first time in almost seven years, Kim Fajardo showed up on the taraflex with a red and black jersey.
Fajardo, who had been an F2 Logistics Cargo Mover since 2016 until the club team's disbandment in 2023, suited up for PLDT in its opening-match versus Galeries Tower in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday, Feb. 22.
The 30-year-old playmaker did not disappoint, ably orchestrating the offense for the High Speed Hitters with 11 excellent sets in the 25-22, 25-6, 25-9, rout that saw all of her attackers tally a point.
It seemed like a seamless transition for Fajardo, but she admitted to having a sense of nervousness upon arriving at her new home.
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"Ako talaga, noong una, kinakabahan kasi it’s my first time going out sa comfort zone ko," bared Fajardo, who also had two points in the romp.
While the sudden change of scenery may seem daunting at first, the former La Salle star setter shared that PLDT chief tactician Rald Ricafort, fellow decorated setter Rhea Dimaculangan and the rest of the High Speed Hitters helped ease her into the system.
"Noong una, kabado pero ngayon, parang madali na. Madali na para sa akin 'yung lahat kasi si coach Rald naman, lagi niya akong gina-guide," Fajardo said.
"'Yung mga players, sila ate Rhea, same position (kami), gina-guide niya ako. OK na ako, sobrang hindi mahirap 'yung adjustment ko."
With the 5-foot-8 crafty playmaker handling the keys to her team's offense, the High Speed Hitters added more layers to their already potent arsenal.
Still, Fajardo has yet to tap into the peak potential of the High Speed Hitters, who continue to await the recovery of Mika Reyes, Kianna Dy and Jovy Prado.
While she anticipates the return of her injured teammates, Fajardo makes the most out of the current attackers at her disposal to keep the PLDT offense humming.
"Sa akin naman excited kami, ako, na makabalik sila and makasama namin sa training and games. Pero, of course, para sa akin, magpu-focus muna ako kung sino 'yung available. 'Yun muna ang goal," she stressed.
Fajardo and the High Speed Hitters are eager to sustain their winning start when they collide with the Nxled Chameleons on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at the PhilSports Arena at 4 p.m.