MANILA, Philippines — Far Eastern University returning coach Tina Salak has set the expectations high for the Lady Tamaraws believing they are no longer underdogs in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament. 

After FEU return to the Final Four last year– forcing National University to a do-or-die game but falling short to the eventual champion–Salak wants her team to embrace the bigger goals this year with their intact roster bannered by Tin Ubaldo, Chenie Tagaod, Faida Bakanke, Gerz Petallo, Jean Asis, and Jaz Ellarina.

Article continues after this advertisement

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 87 volleyball tournament first round

“That’s a big thing for their maturity, and I also want to change their mindset so they don’t see themselves as underdogs anymore,” said Salak, who worked as a consultant last year before Manolo Refugia was promoted to interim coach.

“They see themselves differently, but I want them to be the main players this time—to recognize that they are the ones to watch.”

Article continues after this advertisement

FILE–FEU Lady Tamaraws . –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Salak wants her wards to translate their fruitful offseason training in Japan after reaching the podium in preseason leagues.

“All the offseason work—training camps, tune-ups—had great results, but when we get here, it’s a whole different version, a new story,” said the former FEU setter-turned-coach. “I just want them to draw motivation from everything we did in the preseason.”

READ: UAAP Season 87 volleyball: storylines and games to watch out for

“Last year, we made it to the Final Four, and that wasn’t easy. But with the privilege of having an intact team, it’s my job to make the most of our time this year—because we never know, this might be our moment. I’m going for it,” she added.

It’s going to be a test of character for Salak this season, believing that rebuilding the team two years ago was easier since this Season 87 could be a make or break with their core graduating after the tournament.

“It’s about helping them while they help me—that’s our relationship now,” said Salak. “I want the players to understand that I’m not putting pressure on them. I’m the one taking that on so they can just focus on playing and doing what we’ve been working on.”

“Our relationship is much better now compared to before. There’s a stronger understanding and connection between us. After three years together, the bond is different—it makes our individual and team goals even stronger.”

Salak opens their campaign against last year’s finalist University of Santo Tomas, led by her Army coach KungFu Reyes on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.