By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
After experiencing an early playoff exit for the sixth time, Smart Omega head coach Ronel “STRONGER” Tan took a moment to reflect on their loss to Blacklist International.
In an exclusive interview with Tiebreaker Times, STRONGER recounted the lessons learned during their MPL Philippines Season 14 campaign, emphasizing that playoff matches hold far greater significance than regular-season games.
“Sobrang layo talaga ng regular season sa playoffs. Meaning to say, kapag dating ng playoffs, hindi lang kami [dapat] sa technical, sa pindot, tsaka sa physical ready. Kundi yung mental fortitude ng team, tsaka mental, ay kahit down ng 0-1 or 0-2, dapat nalalabas pa rin namin yung pinaractice namin,” Tan said.
Despite defeating Blacklist twice in the regular season, Smart Omega faced a different challenge in the playoffs, suffering a commanding 3-0 sweep in the best-of-five series.
As they entered the decisive Game 3, both players and coaching staff encountered various insights that ultimately contributed to their early exit.
“Doon sa pagharap sa Game 3, yung preparations namin, hindi na kami nagkikita sa gitna ng mga players and coaches. Kung ano yung magiging itsura ng Game 3. So yun yung something na dapat naming ayusin sa next season. Kailangan mag-stick lang kami [sa game plan],” said the 31-year-old coach.
Despite finishing the regular season strong with a third seed and a 9-5 record, STRONGER believes that Nowee “Ryota” Macasa, Andrew “Andoryuuu” Flora, Jayson “UK1R” Alupit, and Jomari “Jowm” Pingol still need more experience in major tournaments.
He also praised his coaching staff for their stellar performance this season, noting that they clinched a playoff spot as early as Week 6. However, he acknowledged the need for self-reflection.
“I think the players are really great. They just need more experience, especially yung apat, except Ch4knu. Hindi pa talaga [sila] nakakapag playoffs or champion sa major tournaments. So I guess yung player andoon, sobrang proud ako sa mga players,” he said.
“For the coaches, andon naman from the start para sa mga bata. Ako lang talaga yung not sure.
“I think I am gonna think next pa kung ano yung mangyayari. Kasi I’ve been here for three seasons na, and yung first [coaching stint] ko and itong third was both early exits. So I have to re-evaluate myself,” he continued.
When asked if this self-evaluation meant he might resign as head coach of Smart Omega, STRONGER quickly clarified to Tiebreaker Times that he has no intention of leaving the team, as he loves the organization.
“Hindi ako aalis ng Smart Omega. Love ko yung organization.”
