By Will Imperial
Choco Mucho star Maddie Madayag, who assumed the role of captain after Bea De Leon joined Creamline, expressed her eagerness to face her long-time teammate on the Premier Volleyball League court.
The former Ateneo and Choco Mucho teammates are set to face each other on opposing sides for the first time in several years as the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference approaches, following De Leon’s decision to transfer to another team.
Reflecting on their years of collaboration, Madayag acknowledged the unique challenge of competing against someone with whom she shared countless moments on the same side of the net.
“I’ve always said that the feeling is going to be different because all this time, all these years, we’ve been together on one court. So it’s going to be different playing against her,” Madayag said.
With the departure of De Leon, a close friend and team leader, Madayag has taken it upon herself to be a guiding force for Choco Mucho. Her personal goal for the conference is clear: to be a beacon of leadership and help the Flying Titans secure the elusive championship they aspire to achieve.
The eagerly anticipated showdown between the two talented players is scheduled to take place on April 18 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Madayag, meanwhile, expressed intrigue about the changes De Leon has undergone, playing under Coach Sherwin Meneses and adapting to the distinct team culture at Creamline. The anticipation is palpable as both players look forward to the clash of systems and cultures on the court.
The off-season presented challenges for Choco Mucho as they said goodbye not only to De Leon but also to experienced libero Denden Lazaro-Revilla and spiker Caitlyn Viray. However, the team successfully revamped its roster with strategic signings, including Mars Alba, Bia General, Mean Mendrez, and Royse Tubino.
Madayag provided insights into the team’s adaptation process under the guidance of head coach Dante Alinsunurin. The newcomers are gradually assimilating into the team’s system, with existing players offering support and patience to ensure a seamless transition.
“So far, the new players are still adapting to the system, considering they are relatively new. We are exercising patience for each other so they can fully grasp Coach Dante’s system,” Madayag explained.
