By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
They lack height but they make up the difference with their heart and passion.
Ateneo Lady Eagles coach Oliver Almadro believes they still have what it takes to defend their UAAP women’s volleyball crown when the Season 82 tournament begins tomorrow at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Lady Eagles won’t be seeing action until Wednesday against the University of the Philippines Lady Maroons and Almandro said they are ready for another competitive year where the squad will be parading a mix of veteran and rookie players.
The return of Kat Tolentino, Jamie Lavitoria, and Jhoanna Maraguinot will provide Ateneo’s depth after the exit of Bea de Leon, Maddie Madayag, Kim Gequillana, and Deanna Wong. It is enough as far as Almadro is concerned.
De Leon, Madayag, and Gequillana have graduated while Wong opted to skip her final year to recuperate a recurring injury.
“I’m happy that they came back. If not for them, I’ll be a sophomore-and-rookie-laden team,” said Almadro.
Tolentino, one of the Lady Eagles’ “Triple Towers” along with De Leon and Maddayag, initially decided last November to skip her final year, but had a change of heart to help deliver another trophy to Katipunan.
“They inspire the rookies to give more and give back to Ateneo. They’re sacrificing a lot: Their time, energy… Dito na pumapasok ‘yung passion,” Almadro said.
“Kaya I told my players, nawala man ‘yung height, ‘yung passion and attitude natin should always be there. And I believe in them.”
With rival teams eyeing to dethrone them, Almandro reminds his players to be prepared and work twice as hard.
“It’s a well-balanced team. I hope that with the level of competitiveness in the UAAP, the rookies and the sophomores will deliver…Kasi it’s not about the talent lang eh; it’s also about the character. And I know the seniors will help them naman,” said Almadro.
