By Adrian Stewart Co

Despite falling short of their goal, MRT-Negros remains fulfilled with its stint in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League men’s division last week in Lipa, Batangas.

According to MRT-Negros head coach Ralph Savellano, the opportunity and experience they gained in facing some of the top men’s volleyball players in the country were something to be cherished.

“It’s a great opportunity na makalaro dito sa ganitong klaseng liga so malaking exposure ‘to para sa mga bata saka sa amin na rin na mga coaches,” said Savellano, a former University of Perpetual Help Altas player.

“As a coach, I am very proud of my team, the youngest team in this league with an average age of 21 years old. Napakagandang experience sa amin nito,” he added.

The MRT-Negros started its campaign with a five set win over Sabong International Sports before suffering back-to-back defeats to eventual champion Dasmarinas Monarchs and Global Remit to drop out of semifinals contention.

In the classification round, the Negrense spikers prevailed over Basilan Steel Spikers-Amin Anak partylist followed by a repeat win over Sabong International to finish the tournament in fifth place.

Among those who stood up on offense for the MRT-Negros were Jian Matthew Salarzon, Christian Marcelino, Jet Nonoy, Leo Ordiales, and Gadpray Aresgado, and Kade Parreno on defense.

“I feel so blessed to be part of this league. Having these kinds of young players around me, it’s a privilege to share my knowledge to them,” said Marcelino. “We proved that with MRT-Negros, we have top caliber players who can also represent the Philippines in the future.”/ASC, WDJ