When Tony Koyfman came in for the Ateneo Blue Eagles’ UAAP Season 79 Men’s Volleyball campaign, he was a boost to an already-loaded team.
Linking up with perennial MVP Marck Espejo and decorated setter Ish Polvorosa, the 6-foot-8 American out of New York made his presence felt in every match. It led to a decisive season sweep for the Blue Eagles and Finals MVP honors for Koyfman.
Conversely, he was sorely missed in Season 80 when health issues kept him off the lineup. Ateneo saw their string of titles end at three as both Espejo and Polvorosa bid adieu to the UAAP.
In Season 81, Koyfman is one of the lead performers in Ateneo’s bid for redemption, something he wants for himself.
“Physically, emotionally, mentally painful.
“Kasi having trouble in every other way, it was something else. I wish I could have been there to be that last piece, but maybe the Lord is telling us that there is another path,” said the now-24 year old Koyfman about missing Season 80.
In his first match back, Koyfman was Ateneo’s main threat. He topped the Blue Eagles with 15 points off myriad hits in a win over rivals De La Salle University Green Spikers.
Ateneo are in transition, having also lost head coach Oliver Almadro, who moved to the women’s team. In his final year, aside from proving himself, Koyfman wants to help the program and new head coach Timothy Sto. Tomas into their next phase.
“At first it was definitely… I don’t wanna say scary, but definitely I felt the pressure. When Coach Timmy asked me to take upon that role come Spiker’s Turf, at first I didn’t feel that I was ready,” admitted Koyfman when asked about his role on the team.
“But slowly and surely, considering how our team folded through, I just learned that this is my last year. It’s my last chance to really show myself and to everyone here that I can still do what I did, even two years ago.”
