PLDT’s Royse Tubino. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—PLDT didn’t land a prized UAAP recruit during the break but coach Rald Ricafort said that Royse Tubino is a great addition to their team in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference.
“Although we weren’t able to recruit UAAP players. Royse is very important for us because she fills in the things we need. We also wanted to give Royse a chance to play for a complete team so it won’t be tiring for her and she will be more efficient,” said Ricafort of Tubino in their 25-15, 25-19, 25-22 win over Akari on Saturday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Tubino helped the depleted High Speed Hitters, who rested Mean Mendrez and Mika Reyes, with eight points.
The veteran spiker is thrilled to play for a new team after her mother club, Army opted to skip the midseason tournament due to lack of players, who are currently in military training.
“I am really excited to be with my teammates, especially coach Rald. Because I learn a lot from all his teachings and he motivates us well. For my part, I can cover up the things that the team lacks, so I can help them,” Tubino said in Filipino.
The 31-year-old Tubino said her adjustment period became easier because all of her teammates are easy to get along with.
“All of them are fun to be with. I only need a few more adjustments and jelling. All of them are open to everything just like me. We’re happy,” she said.
Tubino will make the most of their break to continue improving her connection with her teammates before facing the unbeaten Creamline (2-0) on July 13 at Philsports Arena.
“We’ll take it one step at a time. We will polish everything in training so we can apply it during games. Since this conference is short, we have to give our all,” she said.
“We’re bracing for our upcoming games, our next schedule will be heavier so I need their collective effort so I can rotate my players so in case we luckily make it to the semis, everyone will be healthy,” said Ricafort.