UAAP: Mayang Nuique embracing role, new position for Adamson
Adamson Lady Falcons’ May Ann Nuique in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Mayang Nuique is determined to thrive in her new position as the opposite spiker for the young Adamson Lady Falcons in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.
After spraining her ankle in the weekend opener and being limited to five points in their four-set loss to La Salle last Saturday, Nuique dropped nine points in Adamson’s 25-20, 25-15, 25-12 sweep of the University of the East on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
LIVE: UAAP Season 87 volleyball – La Salle vs UST, Adamson vs UE
Nuique was converted back from middle blocker to opposite spiker — her position in her rookie season two years ago, and the versatile player is bringing all her experiences from both experiences to help the rookie-laden Adamson.
“It’s not that hard because I have coaches who guide us, and my teammates believe in us. I am just trying to incorporate my skills from being a middle blocker to the opposite position, especially when it comes to blocking,” said Nuique, who had a 50-percent attacking efficiency on top of two blocks and an ace.
“I know there’s still more to improve, and I’m sure there’s more I can give,” she added.
READ: UAAP: Shaina Nitura, Adamson get back on track with win over UE
The senior Adamson player, armed with her experience in the Maharlika Pilipinas Volleyball Association last year, admitted she’s not as vocal as their rookie leader Shaina Nitura, but she takes on a different role of calming her team and making them smile during the pressure-packed moments.
“My role is to help neutralize the situation or keep things positive. For example, if Shaina is giving instructions, I’m the one who calms things down. In that dynamic, it really helps the team stay in a good place,” Nuique said.
With a 2-1 start, Adamson coach JP Yude is pleased with his players stepping up to the challenge and doing their respective roles.
“I really thank the Lord for having players like them, especially for the talents they bring. That’s what I’m really grateful for—their talents coming together to help lift Adamson up. We still have a lot of work to do and many challenges ahead, but there will definitely be growth,” Yide said.
