UE standout Khy Cepada and interim coach Allan Mendoza are gearing up for a memorable clash with their former mentor, Dr. Obet Vital, as the Lady Red Warriors take on the UP Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament opening
The UE Lady Warriors are undoubtedly one of the teams most affected by the whirlwind off-season, which saw several key players leave--including last year’s rookie sensation Casiey Dongallo, Kizzie Madriaga, and Gelai Gajero.
On top of that, their former coach, Obet Vital, made the decision to join the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons.
[ALSO READ: Casiey Dongallo, Jelai Gajero, Obet Vital head to Fighting Maroons as UP makes volleyball push]
Despite these unexpected challenges so close to the start of UAAP Season 87, the Lady Warriors are determined to hold their ground and remain focused.
“It’s a hard thing po kasi doon po kami mags-stay sa lineup. Ginawa na lang po namin siyang positive thing,” said Khy Cepada, reflecting on the difficult changes and the team’s positive approach.
Cepada also emphasized the strength of their support system.
“I still have my teammates, support system, not everything is negative. Ginagawa na lang naming motivation,” she added, showing that the team is choosing to use the situation as motivation to push forward.
Though the changes have been difficult, Cepada acknowledged the emotional impact of it all.
“Syempre it’s sad and heartbreaking kasi nangyari ‘yon. Pero hindi naman kami dapat magmukmok lang,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Cepada expressed understanding and maturity regarding the departures.
“Wala naman po kasing hard feelings. We know the real reason behind it. It’s great din po na makakalaban namin tapos first game pa talaga,” she said, looking forward to facing former coach Obet Vital on Saturday.
@onesportsphl "WALA NAMAN PO KASING HARD FEELINGS." UE stalwart Khy Cepada and interim coach Allan Mendoza anticipate a special matchup against their former tactician and mentor, Dr. Obet Vidal, as the Lady Red Warriors face the UP Fighting Maroons on Saturday, February 15, in the #UAAPSeason87 women's volleyball tournament. | via Luisa Morales/One Sports #OSOnTheSpot #LegendsStartHere #StrongerBetterTogether #OneSports
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The Lady Warriors will face the UP Fighting Maroons on Saturday, February 15, in the opening match of the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.
[ALSO READ: Angelica Reyes admits UE ‘still adjusting’ to surprise exits but remain self confident for UAAP Season 87]
The game will be aired on One Sports, UAAP Varsity Channel and the Pilipinas Live app.
(With reports from Luisa Morales/One Sports)
[ALSO READ: UAAP Season 87 volleyball guide: Schedule, results, standings, where to watch, and more]