For middle blocker Des Clemente, finding a place to shine in the PVL has been a journey marked by trials and tribulations.
After limited playing time with F2 Logistics and Petro Gazz, Clemente faced the challenge of proving herself yet again.
However, the 6-foot-1 Davao native has finally found a supportive mentor in Capital1 head coach Roger Gorayeb, who has become a pivotal figure in her career revival.
Clemente's previous stints were characterized by fleeting opportunities and muted performances.
Yet, with Capital1’s entry into the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, Clemente saw a glimmer of hope.
“Give credit talaga kay Coach Roger. Kasi sa mga past team ko… Ang inuna niya talagang i-build sa akin ‘yung confidence ko, doon talaga siya nag-start. Kasi once na-build niya ‘yung confidence ko, dire-diretso na ‘yun,” she shared.
Gorayeb’s approach was simple yet profound: build confidence first, and the rest will follow.
This strategic focus on confidence has proven transformative. Now in her second conference with Capital1, Clemente has become an essential player for the Solar Spikers.
Her growth is evident in the team's progress from a struggling debutant with a solitary win to a formidable contender in the ongoing import-laced tournament.
In their recent game, Clemente’s impact was palpable.
She delivered a standout performance, scoring 14 points—her highest of the conference—to propel the Solar Spikers to a four-set victory over Galeries Tower, 25-13, 26-28, 25-22, 25-21. This crucial win came just ahead of the Reinforced Conference quarterfinals and highlighted Clemente’s development.
Capital1’s transformation is evident in their preliminary round record of 5-3, a stark contrast to their dismal 1-10 record in the previous season’s opening conference. The team’s rise has been a testament to both their resilience and Clemente’s contributions.
Reflecting on her performance, Clemente admitted,
“Last game kasi, medyo 'di ganun ka-okay yung performance ko, so gusto kong bumawi simula next game hanggang sa mga susunod pa namin na games.”
With an average of 7.4 points per game heading into the match, she is driven to continue improving. Her goal for the conference is to take it "one set at a time," working diligently to support her teammates, including standout Marina Tushova, and elevate Capital1’s game further.
Clemente’s gratitude towards Gorayeb is profound.
“Sobrang happy ko talaga under Coach Roger kasi sobrang pinaramdam niya sa akin na full ‘yung trust niya so parang ako, bibihira ‘yung ganung coach,” she said. Her voice echoes with appreciation for the trust and encouragement she has received, something she had long sought but struggled to find in previous teams.
The rekindling of her passion and confidence under Gorayeb’s mentorship has been pivotal in her resurgence.
“Tagal kong hinanap ‘yun, ngayon ko lang natagpuan ‘yung coach na grabe ‘yung trust sa akin so talagang tinatrabaho ko lang and tulong tulong,” Clemente concluded.
