Jau Umandal, the reigning Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Most Valuable Player, will lead the Philippine men’s indoor volleyball team for the 32nd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.
Umandal led AMC-Cotabato to the Open Conference Finals, and he is expected to bring his impressive skills and experience to the team’s quest for a medal in Cambodia.
Vince Mangulabnan, Umandal’s setter, will serve as the team captain.
The squad also includes Steven Rotter, Lloyd Josafat, Kim Dayandante, Vince Lorenzo, and Jayvee Sumagaysay, all of whom played for the Cotabato team.
Other members of the team are Rwenzmel Taguibolos and Leo Ordiales from National University-Archipelago Builders, Manuel Sumanguid III from Cignal, Jade Disquitado from Iloilo, and Jay Rack Dela Noche from University of Santo Tomas.
Fil-Ams Cyrus De Guzman and Michael Vincente complete the team, which is coached by Brazilian Sergio Valadares Veloso.
The men’s volleyball coaching staff includes Arthur Odjie Mamon assistant coach), Rommel Abella (assistant coach), Mark Gil Alfafara (trainer), Melchizedek Samonte (strength and conditioning coach) and Jerome Guhit (team manager).
PNVF President Ramon “Tats” Suzara praised the team’s formidable roster, emphasizing the athletes’ dedication and determination to represent their country.
The coaching staff focused on chemistry to ensure that the players would blend well on the court, taking into account the competitions and challenges of the SEA Games.
The indoor volleyball competitions will start on May 1 at the Morodok Techo Elephant Hall in Cambodia, two days before the opening ceremony.
