Now that Mapua University has barged into the win column of the NCAA Season 97 women's volleyball tournament with five-set win over San Sebastian-College, head coach Clarence Esteban knows they won't settle with just that.
The tactician stressed it's high time the school is recognized for its volleyball program and with their hard-fought victory against the Lady Stags, Esteban believes they're on the right track.
"Siyempre masarap kasi matagal nang ine-aim ng mga bata 'yan so 'yung pagkapanalo namin para silang nag-champion kasi 'yun naman talaga 'yung gusto naming mangyari na i-uplift 'yung image ni Mapua pagdating sa volleyball," said Esteban following their 15-25, 25-23, 25-18, 19-25, 15-12 win on Wednesday.
"Para hindi rin basta-basta 'yung tingin nila sa Mapua, para at least kahit papaano nagkaro'n ng bunga 'yung paghihirap namin doon sa bubble namin."
Mapua has had tough campaigns in the previous years, finishing almost every year at the cellar. But with a fresh start, Mapua is eager to give the school its maiden title with team captain Jonine Fernandez and a young crew showing the way.
Fernandez, for her part, stressed their opening day loss to three-time defending champion Arellano University was their motivation heading into the match against San Sebastian.
"Kailangan talaga naming ibawi 'yung unang game namin," said the graduating open spiker.
Her teammate in rookie Nicole Ong added: "Coming from a loss, eager talaga kami makaramdam ng panalo at mapakita kung ano 'yung laro talaga namin."
—JMB, GMA News
