Michelle Cobb, a key figure in Akari’s journey since its debut in the Premier Volleyball League, is thrilled with the team’s remarkable success in the Reinforced Conference.
The Chargers, who ended the previous All-Filipino Conference in seventh place with a 5-6 record, are now leading the league with a perfect 7-0 record after their recent victory over Nxled on Thursday.
Akari will face Farm Fresh on Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City for a chance to complete a preliminary round sweep.
Historically, Akari had never finished higher than seventh place in their first five conferences. Reflecting on the current success, Cobb noted the significant changes within the team.
“I think marami rin kasing naging changes yung Akari eh in terms of players, in terms of coaches so this time around, na-feel ko rin po yung difference so for me positive siya kasi ayun nga, lahat kasi kami in sync in terms of sa system ni Coach Taka (Minowa),” said Cobb.
The arrival of head coach Taka Minowa before the Reinforced tournament and the addition of players like Ivy Lacsina, Kamille Cal, Cams Victoria, and Dani Ravena have significantly boosted Akari’s lineup.
(C) PVL Images
When asked if the Chargers are genuine contenders and if they can achieve their goal this time, Cobb responded with confidence.
“Yes. Yes. Kasi like what I said, we’re all on the same page and we’re all going in the same direction. So, as long as consistent kami sa ganon na keep pushing forward lang no matter what happens, no matter the circumstances sa team, as long as we keep it together,” said Cobb, who contributed 18 excellent sets and nine points, including four attacks, four aces, and a block in their match against the Chameleons.
Despite her optimism, Cobb is mindful of the team’s tendency to start slow.
In their seven victories, three matches went to five sets, three to four sets, and only one was decided in straight sets.
“Game plan namin kasi is always to start strong and hindi namin yun nagagawa the past games. Yun pa rin talaga yung kailangan namin iimprove if gusto naming makadating sa taas,” she said.
