PVL: Dawn Macandili draws praise for F2 Logistics’ hot start

Dawn Macandili. PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — F2 Logistics coach Regine Diego lauded libero Dawn Macandili, who has been playing a vital role in their impressive start in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

Behind the Cargo Movers’ fiery start in their first two games was Macandili’s tremendous floor defense as she stabilized her team from the back row and helped them execute their plays.

Diego, who used to play libero for La Salle in the 2000s like Macandili from 2014-18, gave credit to the 26-year-old Cargo Mover, dubbed as “Miss Everywhere.”

“Dawn is always very, very reliable. She’s the glue that binds this team. So I’m happy that Dawn is playing for my team, and I’m very lucky to have her,” said the new F2 Logistics coach.

Despite Macandili’s impressive start that put F2 Logistics on top of the standings with Creamline and Chery Tiggo, the youthful coach wants more from the reigning Best Libero of the conference, who has been receptive to learning and improving more.

“There are still more things that I want her to do because she still has a lot to learn. And she said that she’s happy that she still needs a lot of understanding [to improve her game]. She was very steady and I could trust her anytime,” Diego said in Filipino.

Macandili, who had another day at the office with 14 digs and 13 excellent receptions in their 25-22, 25-23, 25-18 win over Akari on Saturday at Philsports Arena, said her team’s mindset is to give its best and make necessary adjustments every game.

“Every game our mindset is to give our best, and how to quickly adjust in all situations,” she said.

The former La Salle stalwart also agreed with her new coach that they are still a work in progress despite taking the early lead in the standings.

“I feel the side of coach Reg that this team has a big potential and she wants to bring out the best in each player,” Macandili said.

Coming off a frustrating first PVL season where the Cargo Movers failed to make the semifinals in the two conferences they played last year, Macandili is confident that their revamped team will meet the target of their new coach.

“We’re gonna get there,” Macandili said. “I’m very excited with this team because we made a lot of changes for the better. And I’m also excited to grow with them.”

F2 Logistics eyes its third straight win against its fellow unbeaten team, Chery Tiggo, on Thursday at FilOil Flying V Centre.