It was a dominant start for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the PVL.
Maddie Madayag went straight to her mother Donna, who was sitting courtside at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
She gave her a hug and a kiss after leading Choco Mucho Flying Titans to a 25-15, 25-20, 25-20 win over Akari Chargers in their Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference opener.
Under a new coach in Dante Alimsunurin, the Flying Titans have yet to realize their full potential. But Saturday’s game could be a good sign that they are in the right direction.
Still groping for form after suffering an ACL injury in 2021, Madayag finished with 11 points in a balanced Flying Titans attack.
According to the 5-foot-11 spiker, the well-distributed offensive that also saw Kat Tolentino and Bea de Leon finish with 11 markers is a testament that the system of Alinsunurin is working.
“For now, we’re just focusing on the new system. Kita naman na gumagana sa team namin 'yung system,” said Madayag.
The rousing start was the perfect gift for Madayag, who is turning 25 on Tuesday.
When asked what her wish is, she had a wholesome response.
“Just wish a healthy season for all the teams. And for our team to be successful this conference,” said Madayag, whose squad is seeking a podium finish in the All-Filipino tilt.