Choco Mucho's Mars Alba embraced the daunting challenge of stepping into the shoes of the injured Deanna Wong and delivered a stellar performance during her debut in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
In the absence of Wong, who was sidelined due to a persistent knee injury, Alba took control of the offense, guiding the Flying Titans to a commanding 25-12, 25-22, 25-18 victory against Nxled at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Thursday.
Facing the pressure of filling in for a key player, Alba viewed it as a challenge rather than a burden. She reflected, "Syempre po, merong [pressure] pero ginamit ko na lang ‘yun as a challenge kasi siyempre, hindi naman [madali] ‘yung i-fifill in ko na position given na last conference, silver medalist sila," acknowledging the expectations that came with the role.
During the match, Alba received valuable guidance from the injured Wong, who was actively offering instructions from the sidelines. Expressing her gratitude, Alba said, “Thankful din ako kay Deanna (Wong) kasi gina-guide niya ako throughout this game.”
In her debut with the Flying Titans, Alba showcased her skills with 18 excellent sets and contributed two crucial points. The former La Salle setter joined Choco Mucho after the abrupt disbandment of F2 Logistics following the 2023 PVL season.
Acknowledging her ongoing adjustment to Choco Mucho's system, Alba thanked head coach Dante Alinsunurin for the trust placed in her to fill in for Wong. She stated, “Siyempre, thank you kay Lord, thank you sa mga coaching staff and teammates na nagtiwala sa’kin. Marami pang kailangang i-adjust kasi given na bago lang ako sa team, nangangapa pa ako sa sistema nila Coach (Dante Alinsunurin), pero getting there.”
With a humble and determined mindset, Alba expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, pledging to follow Coach Alinsunurin's system and contribute to the team's success. “For me, ‘yun nga, thankful ako na nabigyan ako ng ganitong opportunity. Susundin ko lang ‘yung sistema nila coach kasi bago lang din ako eh. So lahat ng pwede kong ibigay and pwede kong matulong sa team, gagawin ko.”
