The FIVB Volleyball Nations League gave the Philippines three straight years to witness world-class action live in front of volleyball-crazy Filipino fans.
However, much like any competition, it also provided the participating squads a chance to gauge their current performance and teamwork.
Playing in a neutral venue also gave the teams a new perspective on the support they could receive from these adoring fans.
That was the experience of VNL Manila first-timer United States. Despite failing their quest for redemption after missing the title for two straight years, captain and setter Micah Christenson felt proud of how his team persevered until the end.
“We capped it off with an incredible crowd in the last game here in Manila. We wished we could have made it a longer match, but at the same time, it was really good volleyball out there on the court,” the 2022 and 2023 VNL top playmaker said of that last match against Japan, in which they suffered a 20-25, 23-25, 20-25 sweep.
With the second unit starting to get playing time, Christenson cheered from the sidelines before eventually being inserted in the third set.
However, the Americans could not stop the Japanese run and ultimately finished with a defeat.
Nonetheless, for the seasoned skipper and the rest of the USA side, it is all part of the process.
“I’m really proud of our guys; we fought and battled. Now we just keep learning from our experience, but our trip to Manila was a great success based on our shared experiences,” the former University of Southern California standout expressed.
With two dramatic wins and two heartbreaking losses in the Manila leg, Christenson appreciated the wonderful support of Filipino fans, especially those who came out to the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“What else could I say but thank you? Thank you again and again for your support. You guys are crazy in the best way possible. In all the loving ways you say the word. It’s really special to play volleyball here in front of these people with all that support.”
