Annie Mitchem eager to return to Akari after steering the Chargers to the PVL bronze medal

The Akari Chargers capped a resurgent campaign in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference with a stunning five-set triumph over the favored PLDT High Speed Hitters, 25-15, 23-25, 25-21, 24-26, 18-20, to clinch the bronze medal on Sunday, November 30, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Leading Akari’s spirited comeback was star import Annie Mitchem, who delivered a towering 36 points alongside 12 excellent receptions in a performance that underscored her value to the franchise. Grethcel Soltones provided ample support with 14 points, 10 digs, and 13 receptions, while Ced Domingo chipped in nine markers. Fifi Sharma and Eli Soyud added eight and six points, respectively, to round out the balanced effort.

Mitchem, who has quickly endeared herself to teammates and fans alike, reiterated her desire to return to the Chargers after her standout run in the PVL.

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“I would love to come back. I hope I can come back to Akari. I really had the best time here. The relationship with the girls, the staff, and the coach loves me. I’m really thankful to be here, and I’m just so happy I got to experience this. I have said this so many times, but I have had the best time here, and I want to come back,” Mitchem said during the post-match press conference.

Annie Mitchem relishes her PVL experience with Akari. | @LanceAgcaoilINQ

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The American outside hitter also acknowledged the emotional swings of their dramatic battle against PLDT, admitting that the Chargers themselves were surprised by their fourth-set turnaround.

“In the fourth set, I thought it was over. I kind of was just preparing to just like finish. And then all of a sudden, we were winning. I don’t even think we expected that. It was like a shock for even ourselves. And then in the fifth set, I think we started to fight more. And want to actually show what we can do and win,” she added.

Mitchem’s performance has validated her as one of Akari’s smartest acquisitions to date, and the Chargers celebrated the bronze medal with the passion of a title victory—recognizing its significance for a young and ambitious franchise.

While nothing has yet been confirmed by management regarding her future, there is little doubt that Akari will make a strong push to bring Mitchem back for another run.

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