In true UP fashion, there’s indeed nowhere to go but up for these Fighting Maroons.
The UP Fighting Maroons are coming into Season 86 with a clean slate.
After winning just one game last season, State U looks to put up some surprises and let UAAP fans know the team is in it to win it.
Team captain Abi Goc, for one, is relishing this upcoming season as a chance for UP to be on the up and up.
“We have nothing to lose but everything to gain,” Goc told One Sports.
“I don't know what will happen to us this season, but I know for sure every one of us will give their best [and] will give confidence to each other,” she added.
With Oliver Almadro now calling the shots for the Fighting Maroons, the hope is that the Diliman-based squad can make the jump and be a Final Four contender—something that Goc sees a tangible goal the team can serve for.
“Our goal this season is to be in the Final Four. I know it will be harder than what we think [pero] siguro ang pinaka-madali na mangyayari for us this season is 'yung magtutulungan kami and we will lift each other up for us to get that goal,” said Goc.
As UP team captain for Season 86, Goc admits that there’s pressure to do well.
But in true team fashion, the rest of the Fighting Maroons make sure that that's a responsibility that she can carry with grace and grit. The 24-year-old outside hitter will not be alone, with UP mainstays like Jewel Encarnacion, Nica Celis, and Niña Ytang decided to stay for one more year.
“It feels very scary but at the same time, it feels [like] a blessing for me to lead the team kasi I know my teammates, they're very respectful, they're very talented,” said Goc.
And in true UP fashion, there’s indeed nowhere to go but up for these Fighting Maroons.