UAAP: Ateneo looks ahead after breakthrough women’s volleyball victory

Barging their way into the win column for the first time in the UAAP Season 88 women's volleyball tournament, Ateneo de Manila University is aiming for more coming into second round proceedings.

Thumping University of the East in straight sets, it was a complete team effort from the Blue Eagles, headlined by sophomore Jihan Chuatico’s 13 points on seven attacks, five blocks, and one service ace.

“After that 0-6 standing talaga, we were able to talk to each other na how are we going to regroup as a team. Yung losses na yun, we treat them as learning experiences,” said Chuatico.

“[But] coming into this game, inisip ko talaga, I don’t want to learn today, I want to win,” the middle blocker asserted.

Meanwhile, finally getting a win at the collegiate level, high-flying rookie Ana Hermosura hopes to use this breakthrough win as fuel entering into the next slate of games.

“Isa siyang inspiration na game din na coming into the second round na mag-push pa. Being [more] matured inside the court, para maka-contribute pa sa team,” voiced Hermosura.

The new Atenean outside hitter finished the bout with 11 points on 10 attacks and one service ace.

“Motivation din na I’m playing for Ateneo. Credits to coach din kung ano 'yung pinapakita ko sa laro. It’s all because of him and hindi lang para sa sarili ko but for also sa team din,” she added.

Encountering a turbulent opening round, Ateneo tactician Sergio Veloso is more than proud of his team for displaying grit and tenacity every single game.

Despite outside noise surrounding the Blue Eagle camp, Veloso has maintained that his focus is on the team and how he can encourage them to continue the fight.

“I respect everyone. But what is most important for me, first, is the players. Our team…They don’t know what’s happening on the inside. If you want to ask me and I have time to talk with you, I can explain,” said the Ateneo head coach.

“I told the players, hey, don’t look, don’t listen [there]. If you start to listen to other people, this is bad energy. We need to play all the time in the positive energy. And here, all our team, we stay here for Ateneo.”

—JKC, GMA Integrated News