By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Bacolod Tay Tung High School Thunderbolts’ secondary girls volleyball team is ramping up preparations for a busy stretch of tournaments beginning next month in Bacolod City.

Backed by F2 Logistics Cargo Movers, the Thunderbolts are set to see action in the Rebisco Volleyball League, which kicks off on November 4 at The Hangar.

The team will also test their mettle in the Negros Occidental Division Meet from November 5 to 8, the Bacolod Division Meet from December 1 to 5, and the highly anticipated Regional Meet scheduled from December 14 to 18.

To sharpen their form ahead of these events, the Ian Macariola-mentored squad held several tune-up games from college-based teams.

“The scrimmage provided the Thunderbolts with valuable experience and an opportunity to fine-tune their chemistry and court execution,” Thunderbolts team manager Jose Montalbo said.

Among those who saw action in the friendly were Briana Nikola Ang, Alexa Bertolano, Zelver Banguaio, Daniella Saloria, Ana Ysabelle Hermosura, Jan Rose Bulak, Shanen Bañas, Luchi Vivero, Memielle Letran, and Jhaney Mayang.

Rhose Viane Almendralejo missed the match as she is currently representing the Philippines with the Alas Pilipinas 18-under squad in the Asian Youth Games, while Edz Karylle Escultura sat out due to an injury.

Coach Macariola expressed optimism about his team’s progress, noting that the Thunderbolts’ mix of veterans and promising newcomers gives them a strong balance heading into the next competition.

“We’re focused on consistency and teamwork. The girls are working hard every day to stay sharp and disciplined,” Macariola said.

With a proud tradition of excellence in age-group volleyball, the Thunderbolts aim to extend their winning culture and continue developing young talents who could eventually move on to represent Western Visayas — and possibly the national team — in future tournaments./ASC, WDJ