Benson Bocboc, taking over from Oliver Almadro, will aim to lead the UP women's volleyball team to a stronger showing as hosts of UAAP Season 87.
The University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons Women’s Volleyball Team is entering a new era, as Benson Bocboc takes over as head coach ahead of UAAP Season 87, the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (OASD) announced on Friday.
Bocboc, a longtime assistant coach with the De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers, is poised to lead a revitalized UP squad with hopes of bouncing back from a challenging campaign in Season 86, when the Fighting Maroons secured only one win.
Bocboc's appointment comes as UP's volleyball program director, Oliver Almadro, transitions to an overseeing role. He will continue shaping the overall direction of the UP volleyball program.
"Nagkaroon tayo ng opportunity to bring together two champion coaches, and we just took advantage of it. With coach Boc on the bench, coach O overseeing lahat-lahat, and siyempre, the continued support from boss Frank, we're looking forward to the bright future ng UP volleyball," said UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol, acknowledging the support from Frank Lao of Strong Group Athletics.
With a rejuvenated roster, including veterans Nina Ytang, Nica Celis, and Irah Jaboneta, and promising newcomers like Kianne Olango, Yesha Noceja, and Jothea Mae Ramos, Bocboc's leadership aims to guide UP back to its former Final Four glory.
The Fighting Maroons' last trip to the semifinals was in Season 79, led by now-PVL stars Tots Carlos and Isa Molde.
Bocboc brings with him years of experience from DLSU and F2 Logistics, where he was instrumental in their success from 2016 to 2024. He also served as interim head coach for F2 Logistics in the 2022 Premier Volleyball League Open and Reinforced Conferences.
As Season 87 approaches, Bocboc and Almadro are determined to build a stronger program, with hopes of making UP a Final Four contender once again.
(With reports from Luisa Morales, One Sports Digital)
[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]