Standing at 6-foot-2 with an expansive wingspan, Ateneo-Motolite’s Kat Tolentino has always been a high-potential prospect.
Coming into her third year as a Lady Eagle, the Filipino-Canadian winger is taking on a broader role as one of Ateneo’s seniors.
Her role has been clear throughout Atene’s first two matches in the PVL Open Conference: score and deliver in crucial moments.
Following a 20-point outing against Pocari Sweat-Air Force, Tolentino again proved pivotal against another veteran squad in the Petro Gazz Angels. Tolentino powered in 24 points against Angels, six of which came in a one-sided fifth set.
With open hitter Jho Maraguinot moving on to a professional career, Tolentino now features as Ateneo’s best wing option.
“For me, my strength is obviously spiking but of course I want to contribute in any way I can,” the 23-year-old said, adding that new Ateneo head coach Oliver Almadro has clear roles for each player on the roster.
“When he (Almadro) says, ‘Know your role’, it’s just that each player has their strengths and weaknesses and we really look to capitalize on each player and every person has a very big role.
“Because if one person doesn’t do their role, it makes it harder for other people. Even if it’s small, coach O always says that it’s important,” she furthered. “I wouldn’t be able to do my role without the liberos or the people who receive so definitely their role is just as important as mine. Maybe they don’t get noticed as much but for me I wouldn’t be able to spike without their sets or their digs.”
Still in the early stages of preparation for UAAP Season 81, Tolentino is well aware of her team’s youth. Going against the veteran PVL squads can only further their development.
“It definitely shows (immaturity), since we went to five sets, that we’re still young and that we need to adjust during the game. But it also shows that we’re learning to trust coach O’s system and it really works as the game goes on. It also shows we’re maturing throughout the games.”
