After a dismal 1-10 record in their maiden conference, coach Roger Gorayeb has become the focal point for leading Capital1 to a much-improved season in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
The head coach had to make crucial decisions in hopes of seeing the Solar Spikers rise from their poor start in the PVL, one of which was selecting young outside hitter Marina Tushova as their import.
Despite believing that many criticized this move, Gorayeb is proud that he trusted his instincts, as Tushova’s historic performance has propelled Capital1 to a 4-2 record, putting them just one game away from a playoff spot in the Reinforced tournament.
“Noong una, syempre maraming ‘huwag ‘yan, choose another one,’ but I had to stick to my gut feeling and instinct as a volleyball coach. I’ll stick to her no matter what,” Gorayeb said after the Solar Spikers’ 20-25, 20-25, 25-16, 25-19, 15-6 reverse sweep of Nxled on Saturday night.
“Marina has proven a lot of people wrong… I made the right choice. I would rather see Marina playing on our side than playing against her,” the former Ateneo mentor added.
(C) PVL Images
In addition to the offensive capabilities the 25-year-old outside hitter brings, Gorayeb lauded Tushova’s professionalism and willingness to mentor Capital1’s young players.
After selecting Roma Doromal, Leila Cruz, and Gillianna Torres in the first-ever PVL Draft, the Solar Spikers’ young core also includes Shola Alvarez, Janeca Lana, and Iris Tonelada, among others.
“Playing this way, marami siyang naishe-share at naga-guide doon sa mga player natin na local. They see her as a high-intensity player,” Gorayeb revealed.
Gorayeb added that Tushova’s desire to play in the Philippines has not only worked wonders for the Solar Spikers in their franchise-best start but also for her professional career once her PVL stint is over.
Thanks to scouts who can watch the games across the globe, the Russian spiker already has pending offers after her brief stop in a volleyball-obsessed country like the Philippines.
“Nasca-scout na rin siya so there will be offers for her. Hindi naman natatapos dito [sa Pilipinas] ang volleyball career niya; she has another country in the future,” the 65-year-old coach added.
