Two more products of Chery Tiggo’s volleyball program made Philippine volleyball history on Sunday afternoon.
Almost a year after Jaja Santiago towed the Saitama Ageo Medics to the top of Japan V.League’s Cup tournament, Jaja’s older sister Dindin Manabat and good pal Mylene Paat powered Nakhon Ratchasima QminC to a bronze medal finish in the 2021-22 Volleyball Thailand League season.
The duo became the first Filipino volleyball players to land on the podium of Thailand’s premier volleyball league.
Of course, proud is Chery Tiggo’s brass of the latest accomplishment of their wards.
“We are very happy and proud of their achievement,” said Crossovers team manager Ronwald Dimaculangan.
Paat was the first to arrive in Thailand, landing there last November 27.
In the first round of the tournament, the 27-year-old opposite hitter out of Adamson powered Nakhon to a 4-3 finish in the first round.
“We saw significant improvements in her skills, particularly her service,” said Dimaculangan, who is also the head coach of UE’s boys’ volleyball team.
“She is also faster in her attacks and has improved her defense.”
Santiago-Manabat then arrived just in time for the second round.
Photo from SMM Volleyball
Though Nakhon finished with a 2-3 record for fourth place in the second round, the team still finished on the podium after knocking off Khonkaen Star in the bronze medal match, 25-23, 25-17, 25-18.
According to Dindin’s husband Chico, the two are set to arrive early this week and will join Chery Tiggo’s preparation for the 2022 Premier Volleyball League Open Conference.
Despite their stellar outings in Thailand, Dimaculangan is tempering expectations for their title defense.
After all, it’s technically still a new team that will not have reigning MVP Jaja Santiago.
“Our goal, of course, is to defend the title,” said Dimaculangan.
“But we won’t put too much pressure on the players. Just like last season, we will be taking it one game at a time.”
Chery Tiggo leads Pool A. The defending champions are also grouped with Choco Mucho, Black Mamba-Army, Cignal, and F2 Logistics.
The tournament begins on March 16 at the Paco Arena.
