Despite having barely enough time to adjust, Angel Canino was hailed the Best Opposite Spiker in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup.
The strategic decision to reposition Angel Canino as an opposite hitter has proven to be an undeniable success for Alas Pilipinas.
Canino's exceptional performance not only led Alas Pilipinas to a historic bronze medal in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup, but also earned her the prestigious Best Opposite Hitter award for the tournament.
[ALSO READ: Jorge de Brito explains decision to move Angel Canino as opposite hitter for Alas Pilipinas]
Despite being a natural outside hitter, Canino shined as an opposite spiker. She finished in the top five in scoring after the preliminary round despite sitting out one game for rest.
The 21-year-old De La Salle superstar was also Alas’ leading scorer in four out of their six games in the Challenge Cup.
The question on everyone’s mind now is whether or not Canino will continue playing as the opposite spiker for Alas Pilipinas, when NU Lady Bulldogs star Alyssa Solomon suits up for the national team once again.
[ALSO READ: Alas Pilipinas to stay intact along with Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, Casiey Dongallo, says PNVF]
Whatever the case may be, the 5-foot-10 spiker says she is simply willing to do whatever it takes to help the national team.
“Tingin ko naging comfortable ako sa position na ito. Pero what I can say right now, anumang posisyon na ibibigay sakin in the future, kakayanin ko at gagawan ko ng paraan,” Canino told reporters after Alas’ bronze medal match.
Of course, Canino is also grateful for the support given by her coaches and teammates throughout the tournament.
“In every position naman na they give me, parang tinatry ko maging comfortable. And as of now, I'm happy with my position, I'm happy kung ano binigay na position ni coach Jorge [de Brito] sakin,” said Canino.
[ALSO READ: Angel Canino credits teammates, coaches for Best Opposite Spiker award in AVC Challenge Cup]
“Inembrace ko talaga 'yun and sobrang saya ko with the support of my teammates, with the support of the ates also, 'yung mga gabay nila sakin, nakakatulong sa loob,” she added.
Canino and the rest of Alas Pilipinas will gear up for their next tournament, the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Women's Challenger Cup, which will be held from July 4 to 7 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.