Erika Santos named the PVL players whose style of play inspires her as she continues to rise with the Cignal Super Spikers.
It’s been a blazing rise for Erika Santos since joining the Cignal Super Spikers last year.
The talented opposite spiker quickly made her mark as a Cignal ace, highlighted by her standout performance that earned her MVP honors during the PVL on Tour.
As she continues to establish herself in the professional ranks, Santos shared the players she considers her idols—veterans whose skills and approach to the game continue to influence her development.
At the top of her list is Farm Fresh's Ara Galang, a favorite among other PVL players, whose experience and intelligence on the court have long impressed the rising star.
"Ate Ara kasi kahit na matagal siya naglalaro, nandun pa rin 'yung gulang. 'Yung skills nandiyan eh, so matalino. Sobrang idol siya."
Santos also pointed to star libero Kath Arado, whom she previously played alongside during her stint with the PLDT High Speed Hitters.
"Ate Kath, walang lalapag na bola talaga. Kahit saan man 'yan, kaya noong teammate ko siya sobrang ang gaan na feeling nung trabaho dahil sa kanya."
Another former PLDT teammate who left a strong impression on Santos is Savi Davison, whose competitive nature is something she hopes to emulate.
"Tapos top 3 si Savi. Competitive siya and gusto kong ma-adapt din kung paano siya maglaro."
Santos also highlighted her current teammate at Cignal, Gel Cayuna, whose playmaking has helped guide the Super Spikers’ offense to near the top of the standings in the All-Filipino Conference.
"Top 4, si Gel. Setting distribution and 'yung style niya, which is okay naman ngayon."
Rounding out her list is veteran middle blocker Mika Reyes, whom Santos admires for her presence and composure at the net.
"Tapos last si ate Yeye. 'Yung blockings and kung paano siya maging composed all throughout the game."
From experienced scorers to defensive anchors and elite playmakers, the players Santos looks up to represent the different facets of the game she continues to study as her own PVL career gains momentum.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.