Far Eastern University-DN Steel might have cruised past Hyogo in their 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference semifinals clash, but head coach Eddieson Orcullo believes the Ultras can still take valuable lessons from their Japanese counterparts.
Despite the dominant 25-17, 25-13, 25-18 straight-sets victory over KondohGumi on Sunday, Orcullo emphasized the importance of adopting the Japanese players’ approach to enjoying every moment on the court.
The guest team, composed of university standouts from Hyogo Prefecture, showcased a relentless fighting spirit and uninhibited joy in celebrating every point, even when trailing significantly in the scoreline.
“Kailangan makuha namin ‘yung attitude ng Japan na hanggang huli lumalaban sila, wala silang pakialam kung anong score, kung ilan lamang mo, kung ilang set ang nakuha mo. The moment na mag-enjoy sila sa court, makita mo makakuha sila ng isang puntos grabe umikot sa court eh,” Orcullo noted.
“Feeling ko ‘yun ang dapat na — well lagi ko nga sinasabi hindi naman masama manggaya eh pero dapat ‘yung gagayahin mo ‘yung maganda para mas maging maganda ‘yung kalabasan ng pinaggagayahan mo.”
The Ultras’ win broke their losing streak in the round-robin semifinals of the tournament, which is organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
The victory improved FEU-DN Steel’s record to 1-2, keeping its slim hopes alive for a spot in the gold-medal match.
(C) V-League Images
Orcullo also highlighted the striking similarities between FEU-DN Steel and KondohGumi, which make it logical for both teams to learn from one another.
The Ultras, who earned their Spikers’ Turf berth by winning the V-League Collegiate Challenge, boast a youthful roster with an average age of 20.6 years.
KondohGumi’s players, with an average age of 19.7, are equally youthful.
The Japanese squad’s discipline also stood out, with their dugout meticulously organized and spotless, earning the admiration of Orcullo and his team.
The Japanese team’s minimal errors, particularly the mere three miscues in the opening set, further impressed the FEU coach.
“Dapat makuha rin namin ‘yung attitude ng player ng Japanese, magaganda,” Orcullo reiterated, underscoring the value of emulating their opponents’ positive traits.
FEU-DN Steel will wrap up its semifinal campaign against Savouge on Friday, while KondohGumi will face Cignal on Wednesday and Criss Cross on Friday in their remaining matches.
