The Lady Warriors are looking to defy expectations.
In the past two UAAP seasons, the UE Lady Warriors have only won two games.
UE hasn’t had much success in challenging the top teams in the league, only scoring victories against teams that are also struggling to win games.
While it hasn’t been the easiest of times for the Lady Warriors, they hope to change their fortunes, starting in Season 86.
Head coach: Jerry Yee
Key losses: Ja Lana, Jel Quizon
Key returnees: KC Cepada, Van Bangayan
Season 85 record: 1-13 (8th place)
The addition of coach Jerry Yee to the Lady Warriors is seen as a positive development for the Recto-based squad.
After all, Yee’s coaching resume has been tried and tested with his previous teams all developing into Final Four contenders.
ALSO READ: UE taps Jerry Yee as coach: ‘His leadership will steer UE in new direction’
Along with Yee’s arrival is the acquisition of several rising volleyball stars in California Academy’s Casiey Dongallo, Jelaica Gajero, Grace Fernandez, Kizzie Madriaga, and Maryhill College's Claire Castillo.
Dongallo, along with her teammates, are seen as game-changers for UE, who sorely need firepower to compete in the league.
“'Yung madadala namin siguro dito sa UE is 'yung chemistry namin. We're also one to help UE to go on hindi lang top eight kundi more pa,” Dongallo told One Sports.
Despite being new to the squad, the 18-year-old outside hitter admits she already feels she belongs with the Lady Warriors.
“Pumunta kami dito kasama 'yung coaches tapos bagong players, bagong coaches, bago 'yung program, so 'yung pinaka-best part is parang inaccept kami. Hindi nila kami tinignan na iba kami sa kanila,” said Dongallo.
[ALSO READ: Unfazed: UE’s Khy Cepada eager to face big names in UAAP Season 86]
Adjusting to Yee’s system while also creating chemistry with their rookies will take time for the Lady Warriors, but it’s a step in the right direction for a team looking to secure a higher finish in Season 86.