Pepper Savings Bank Welcomes Taylor Fricano as New Foreign Player, But Debut Delayed Due to Visa Issues

On October 29, Pepper Savings Bank announced the signing of Taylor Fricano (29, USA) as a replacement foreign player for Barbara Jovic (29, Croatia). Originally selected as the team’s first pick by head coach Jang So-yeon in the foreign player draft last May, Jovic struggled with a shoulder injury, leading the team to bring in Fricano as her replacement. Standing at 190 cm, Fricano is an opposite spiker with extensive experience in international leagues, having played in the Czech Republic, Switzerland, the United States, France, and most recently, Romania before joining the V-League in Korea. Since her arrival, Fricano has been actively participating in team training, building chemistry with her new teammates. However, her official debut has been delayed due to pending International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and visa approval. For now, she has been cheering on her team from the stands. Fricano was spotted at Pepper Stadium in Gwangju on November 1, where she enthusiastically supported her teammates during their home game against GS Caltex. Her bright energy and spirited cheering, including waving fan banners and vocal encouragement, quickly caught the attention of fans in attendance. Despite not yet playing a single V-League game, Fricano was warmly received by fans, who even asked for her autograph—a gesture that deeply touched her and brought smiles to her face. Head coach Jang So-yeon has been equally pleased with Fricano’s positive personality, stating, “Her energetic attitude and eagerness to play are exactly what we need. I believe her bright spirit, combined with her blocking ability and other skills, will create a strong synergy within our team.” The team eagerly awaits Fricano’s debut, confident that her presence will boost their performance. Fricano was set to play in the upcoming away game against Hyundai Engineering & Construction on November 5; however, due to the pending visa, her debut has been postponed. A Pepper Savings Bank representative explained, “As of 6 p.m. yesterday (November 4), her league registration hadn’t been processed, so she won’t be able to participate in today’s game. Once her visa is finalized, she’ll be ready to take the court.” Fricano is expected to join the lineup as soon as the administrative procedures are completed. In addition to her main role as an opposite spiker, Fricano has experience as a middle blocker, bringing valuable blocking skills and versatility to Pepper Savings Bank. Her partnership with Jang Eui will add depth and height to the team’s lineup, positioning Pepper Savings Bank as a stronger competitor in the V-League.