Choco Mucho has emerged from the shadows of heartbreak and pain to secure a coveted spot in the Premier Volleyball League Finals.
This triumphant ascent comes after seven conferences marked by struggle, disappointment, and perseverance.
At the helm of this remarkable journey stands first-year head coach Dante Alinsunurin, the orchestrator of the Flying Titans' march to the grand stage of the Premier Volleyball League Finals.
Their ticket to the championship was punched in a nail-biting showdown against Cignal in Game 3 of the All-Filipino Conference semifinals. The scoreboard told the tale of Choco Mucho's resilience: 25-20, 23-25, 26-24, 25-23.
Alinsunurin, often hailed as the catalyst for the team's success, modestly deflects the credit, attributing the Flying Titans' revival to the fiery spirit within his players.
"I'm not surprised that we made it to the Finals. All my players, if you think about it, they all come from champion teams. They already have that winning mentality," shared the composed mentor, emphasizing the championship pedigree within his roster.
Six of the Flying Titans' roster boast a rich history with championship victories, having been part of illustrious teams such as Ateneo Lady Eagles, University of Santo Tomas, and De La Salle University.
The amalgamation of talent includes names like Jem Ferrer, Denden Revilla, Kat Tolentino, Maddie Madayag, Bea De Leon, Deanna Wong, Sisi Rondina, Caitlin Viray, Maika Ortiz, Aduke Ogunsanya, Des Cheng, Regine Arocha, and Cherry Nunag.
Now, standing at the threshold of their first-ever championship round appearance, Choco Mucho is set to face the formidable Creamline Cool Smashers.
The Cool Smashers, a consistent presence on the PVL podium, pose a challenging adversary with a history of dominance in all 13 conferences they've participated in.
In anticipation of the showdown against their sister team, Coach Alinsunurin emphasizes the crucial role of communication on and off the court.
"Our connection with each player is important. We should have a give-and-take relationship, not just me as a coach dictating, but the players should also be heard," he explained.
As the stage is set for Game 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday at 6 p.m., the Flying Titans, united and resolute, aim to secure their maiden victory in the 10 total matchups against the Creamline Cool Smashers.
