National University Lady Bulldogs dominantly swept the UAAP Season 84 women’s volleyball tournament, with most of their core coming from the university’s high school program.
And that’s something NU Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin wants to replicate in men’s volleyball.
Currently playing in the 2022 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, the veteran bench tactician has six recruits from Nazareth School.
“First priority ko talaga ‘yung galing sa high school namin,” said Alinsunurin, who also serves as the country’s men’s national team head coach.
“Syempre mas importante pa rin sa akin na makakuha ako ng galing high school kasi programa yan ng National University although hindi lahat nakukuha ko pero sinasabihan ko naman ‘yung coaches sa high school as long as may nakikita ako na potential para sa college, iaangat ko.”
Against Santa Rosa City on Saturday, three homegrown rookies in MJ Fortuna, Mac Bandola, and Clarenz Belostrino had the chance to play.
Meanwhile, Michaelo Buddin, who has been spectacular off the bench of NU-Sta. Elena in its first two matches was inserted into the starting lineup.
Fortuna made the most of his chances with 10 points in less than two sets, while Buddin got eight points including two service aces.
“Thankful po ako sa tiwala na binibigay sa akin ni coach and sa teammates ko,” said the new starter.
“Every single day ng training namin binibigay ko ‘yung best ko para maipakita kay coach na deserve ko rin mag first six.”
