By Kristel Satumbaga
University of Perpetual Help coach Sammy Acaylar remains confident of their title-retention bid in the NCAA men’s volleyball season despite losing key players.
That’s because last season’s Rookie-MVP Joebert Almodiel is getting smarter and stronger not to mention the team’s deep pool of reserves who are capable of filling in the void left by last year’s Finals Most Valuable Player Rey Taneo, libero Jack Kalingking and setter Warren Catipay.
The three have already completed their playing years.
Aside from Almodiel, expected to provide stability and power are setter AJ Casaña, a product of their junior team, Palarong Pambansa recruit Louie Ramirez and team captain John Patrick Ramos.
“Although it is an advantage to have one player who stands out, my motto in coaching is to rely on everyone in the team,” said Acaylar.
Acaylar added he had adjusted playing positions of his stalwarts upon the loss of his three prized players, which could surprise their opponents.
Gunning for their sixth crown in eight years, Acaylar said it is normal to feel the pressure of maintaining their competitiveness in the league.
“We’ll just play our game and try to relax, because if my players are tight, that could be a problem,” Acaylar said.
Acaylar sees College of St. Benilde, Arellano University and San Beda University as the teams likely to give them problems.
