Photo credit: PVL

After years of falling short and near misses, PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort is finally getting his moment of validation, as his long-term vision for the High Speed Hitters translated into a breakthrough campaign in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).

Ricafort’s steady belief in his system paid off in the 2025–2026 season, where PLDT completed a dominant run across multiple conferences and emerged as one of the league’s new power teams.

The High Speed Hitters captured a perfect championship run in the first two conferences, including a sweep of the inaugural PVL On Tour—clinching the franchise’s first-ever professional title. They followed it up with a strong showing in the Invitationals, where they built a 15-game winning streak that showcased their rise from contenders to champions.

From seasons of frustration to a season of breakthrough, Ricafort’s transformation of the squad is now being recognized across the league.

His success will be formally honored on May 30 at the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night at Novotel Manila Araneta City, where he is expected to be named Coach of the Year.

Ricafort topped the voting with 11 points, edging out other respected coaches including former Cignal mentor Shaq Delos Santos and Creamline’s Sherwin Meneses.

Under his leadership, PLDT also finished fourth in the Reinforced Conference before capping its campaign with a bronze medal in the All-Filipino Conference—further evidence of a program steadily climbing toward elite status.

Meanwhile, perennial powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers once again proved its dominance, securing its 11th PVL championship in a season that tested the strength of its dynasty.

Creamline also retained its Team of the Year honor, reinforcing its consistency despite growing competition across the league.

The Cool Smashers finished with 10.4 points in the voting, ahead of PLDT and Cignal, solidifying their status as the benchmark of excellence in Philippine volleyball.