A bold coaching gamble paid off as Alas Pilipinas Girls secured a milestone win for the country, subduing Mexico, 25-19, 20-25, 25-19, 25-23, on Saturday (Manila time) for their first victory in the FIVB Volleyball Girls U17 World Championship.
Sacrificing frontline depth for consistency on defense, Alas Pilipinas fielded wing spiker Nadeth Herbon as libero. The team’s dynamo provided an instant shot of adrenaline to what had been an anemic floor defense in the opener against China at Liceo Particular Mixto San Felipe.
The switch rippled across the lineup, resulting in better passing and more efficient attacking. Caera Celis again led the way, with three others scoring in double figures as Alas Pilipinas Girls became only the second Philippine team to win a match in a world championship after the Bryan Bagunas-led squad at last year’s FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
(C) FIVB
Celis had 24 points on 22 attacks, one block, and an ace, while Xyz Rayco added 15 points on 12 attacks, two aces, and a block.
Jhaynna Bulandres scored 10 points, seven from attacks and three from the service line, for Alas Girls, who are supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, and Asics.
Madele Gale accounted for five of the team’s eight total blocks as Alas Pilipinas steadied the ship after a shaky start and improved to 1-1.
The news reverberated through the four corners of the Grand Four Wings Hotel, where Tats Suzara was presiding over the Congress of the Asian Volleyball Confederation, of which he is president.
“This is a breakthrough for the country, a victory on the world stage,” said Suzara, who relayed the good news to FIVB president Fabio Azevedo and his predecessor, Ary Graca, who are both attending the congress.
China leads Pool B with a 2-0 record, while the Philippines, Mexico, Venezuela, and Peru are all 1-1. Tunisia holds a 0-2 record. The top four teams from each pool advance to the next round.
The Philippines takes on Tunisia on Saturday before the tournament takes a break. Alas Pilipinas then returns to action against Peru on Monday before wrapping up pool play against Venezuela on Tuesday.
“We’re not looking too far ahead, but this win shows that the program works, and the girls have shown they can hold their own on the world stage,” said Alas Pilipinas U17 team manager Karl Chan.
(C) FIVB
Coach Edwin Leyva noted that while Herbon showed flashes of brilliance up front against China, the coaching staff believed her defensive instincts would be more valuable in stabilizing the backline.
Herbon started the match with Frances Ramos sharing libero duties, while Taj Tevez moved to the offensive side of the rotation.
Chosen for her high energy as much as her skills, Herbon is now embracing the role switch. The feeling was much different on the bus ride from the hotel to the venue.
“It was a tense ride. I couldn’t stop thinking about what I needed to do,” said Herbon, who also contributed on offense by setting up Celis and Bulandres at the net.
“I’m happy because I think I did what was needed on the court. I’m happy my teammates are pleased with the result. I’ll embrace this role all the way to the end,” she said.
Highlighting the AVC Congress is the first AVC Gala Night, where Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons will receive the Fans Choice for Beach Volleyball Award. Meanwhile, Bryan Bagunas will receive the Fans’ Choice Men’s Volleyball Award.
