RODRIGUEZ, RIZAL – Orchestrating the offense for one of the league’s top teams — and the reigning Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference champions — is no easy task.
But rookie playmaker Jules Tolentino has gradually embraced the responsibility with poise, delivering her finest performance yet as she guided Petro Gazz back on track and into the quarterfinals of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Saturday night.
“For this game talaga sobrang minindset ko last night na ibibigay ko talaga ‘yung lahat ko for this team,” said the 11th overall pick of the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, who finished with a personal-best 27 excellent sets along with two points in the crucial four-set win against Capital1.
Tolentino was entrusted with the starting role at the beginning of the conference, and she readily admitted that the journey has been far from smooth. Instead, it’s been full of adjustments, pressure, and the weight of expectations that come with running a championship-caliber offense.
Petro Gazz stumbled early, slipping to a 3-3 record and suddenly facing the possibility of missing the playoffs — a far cry from the champion squad that had set the standard in the All-Filipino Conference.
For Tolentino, the pressure was compounded by the presence of veteran setter Djanel Cheng, who often took over in tight moments when experience was crucial.
But gradually, Tolentino has found her rhythm, gaining confidence each day in what is arguably the most demanding role for a rookie.
“I would say na sobrang naging tricky siya sa start. Yung gel din namin di pa ganun kabuo nung start,” said the standout from De La Salle University.
“But now na we know na we’re heading to a crucial match, talagang doon lumalabas yung power ng bawat isa and yung will namin to do as much as we can sa training. We’re really happy na na-showcase namin siya today.”
The 6-foot-2 setter admitted that she struggled with her confidence early on, finding it challenging to adjust to the pace and pressure to perform as a rookie.
Luckily for Tolentino, she has veteran teammates who have “seen it all” to guide her. She’s grateful for the chance to learn from their experience, leaning on their advice to improve her game and help the team succeed.
“Siguro kasi ‘yung mga Ates ko rin nandyan always to guide me. And ‘yung kumpyansa ko, ever since naman naging struggle ko talaga siya. So ngayon, ‘yung moment na binibigay sa’kin, ayoko na siyang bitawan pa,” shared Tolentino.
“Gusto ko panghawakan pa kung ano ‘yung binibigay ng mga coaches and teammates sa’kin. ‘Yung trust nila, ayokong mawala ‘yun.”
Angels head coach Gary Van Sickle praised his young setter, commending her growth, composure, and ability to run the team effectively despite her age.
“I know she’s young, but she’s got a lot of ability. She’s very athletic, she works hard at practice. We just told her to stay confident, keep working,” said Brooke’s father.
“It’s been a work in progress but she’s doing well right now.”
