Nxled Chameleons’ Jho Maraguinot. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Nxled coach Taka Minowa admitted he was far from impressed by Jho Maraguinot’s work ethic in the early parts of their preparation for their debut in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference.
But Maraguinot somehow changed that first impression after conspiring with Lycha Ebon to give the Chameleons and Minowa a winning PVL debut as she finished with 11 points in their 25-18, 25-14. 25-19 win over Gerflor on Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“I know everyone says she is a good player before but for now since seeing her the first time playing, she’s like lazy. She’s not doing like professional,” said Minowa
“That’s why I told her, you have a lot of experience in your career but you’re not showing it to your teammate. You need to talk more with the players and coaching staff. You need to share about your experience,” he added.
Minowa, the husband of Jaja Santiago, appreciated the effort of the veteran wing spiker, who has since been making an effort in trying to be a good leader to her teammates and a better player.
“She tries to talk to everyone. Now, she tries to get involved. Before she’s not trying to get involved. But in the past two weeks, she became better,” the Nxled coach said.
‘GREAT MOTIVATION’
Maraguinot said she understands his Japanese coach only wants the best for her, and she is determined to change Minowa’s impression as she leads the young Chameleons.
“It’s a great motivation for me. He doesn’t know how I used to play before. He’s not the kind of person who brings up the past. What he would do is try to help and everyone else to improve, not only to fit his system but also to improve as an athlete. It’s for the future,” Maraguinot said.
“I’m very happy with the performance because ever since coach Taka arrived, he would always say to us don’t expect us to be strong right away. Day by day, he wants us to improve,” said the former Ateneo Blue Eagle
Maraguinot, one of the Akari Chargers who was transferred to their sister team, embraces her role as the leader of the newcomers.
“Considering I am the oldest on this team. I treat myself as their guide. When we’re losing momentum, I have to help them in regaining our composure. Everything else, we’re helping each other,” she said.
Minowa, meanwhile, praised Ebon, who led the charge with 14 points in their opening game.
“She’s a good opposite, especially in the PVL. She had 2 blocks in this game. She didn’t play much in the last competition. That’s why she kind of doesn’t believe in herself. That’s why I try repeating that you need to trust yourself,” said the Japanese coach of Ebon. “And now she’s getting better. Maybe after this competition, she is already among the famous good opposites in the Philippines.”