Far Eastern University-Diliman has truly embraced the mentorship of one of the country’s notable spikers Joanne Bunag, as reflected in its undefeated record in the ongoing UAAP Season 87 wars.
In her first year as head coach, Bunag relishes the opportunity to guide the next generation of FEU stars, having come up through the same program herself.
Despite the challenges posed by the loss of seniors like Claire Loresco and Love Lopez, the transition has been relatively smooth under her leadership.
The Baby Lady Tamaraws are gearing up for tougher battles ahead against defending champions Adamson University and fellow unbeaten squad University of Santo Tomas.
Bunag feels excited to lead the Lady Baby Tams into these crucial matches, emphasizing the importance of growth and learning.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Masaya kami kasi eto wala pang talo, 4-0, pero siyempre hindi pa tapos ang first round. Meron kaming last two games, ‘yung mabigat,” said Sgt. Bunag.
“Kailangan lang naming ma-plantsa ‘yung mga errors namin o ‘yung mga mali namin, kailangan naming maayos.”
Without Loresco, a formidable presence in the middle, Bunag has focused on instilling the importance of effective blocking and floor defense.
She emphasizes that even with a shorter lineup, solid fundamentals are crucial for their success.
“Yung block namin, kailangan naming ayusin kasi ‘yun ‘yung kailangan namin kahit maliliit kami. Dapat i-improve namin ‘yung blocking namin at floor defense, especially ‘yung Adamson at UST mas matatangkad, kaya kailangan naming sumabay,” said the former team captain of the Philippine Army Lady Troopers.
Bunag, who takes pride in her roots at FEU, reminds her players to embrace the learning process and the opportunity to carry on the legacy of excellence at the university.
“Sabi ko nga sa kanila, huwag makampante kahit na kami na ‘yung number 1, kasi medyo kami ma-error. ‘Pag nalinis namin ‘yung error namin, mas magiging maganda ‘yung laro namin,” she concluded.
