The Philippine team breezed through its first test in the AVC Challenge Cup against Macau on Monday. A tougher, more menacing foe against the host squad of Indonesia awaits later today, Tuesday, but the unfazed team led by the Akari Chargers core is poised to give the juggernauts a run for their money considering their mindset heading into the tournament.
Michelle Cobb said the whole team knows that they carry the Philippines on their shoulders.
Being in the national team is a great responsibility and also a big challenge," Cobb said in an Akari video posted on their social media accounts.
"I make myself understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it’s something that I can gain a lot of experience and lessons."
Veteran Bang Pineda and Eli Soyud have something to say about embracing the pressure.
"‘Yung pressure nandun naman e. Sabi nga ng isa kong coach, pressure is privilege. Kailangan mo din talagang pangatawanan kasi isa ring malaking responsibility," Soyud said.
"Hindi ko na lang iniiintindi ‘yung pressure. Kino-collect ko na lang ‘yung experience ko. Ilalaro ko lang. Syempre, minsan lang ‘yung ganitong pagkakataon," Pineda added.
Incoming PVL super rookie Faith Nisperos is beaming with confidence and wants to help the team grow as quickly as possible.
"I could help this year’s roster in a way that I have experience with coach Jorge’s system already, and through that experience, I can also help my teammates get used to the system."