Former Ateneo and Choco Mucho teammates Maddie Madayag and Bea De Leon find themselves on opposing sides for the first time in several years as the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference approaches.
Ex-Fying Titan captain De Leon's decision to join Creamline has set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown between the two talented players which will take place on April 18 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Madayag, who took the helm as captain for Choco Mucho following De Leon's departure, expressed her eagerness to face her long-time teammate on the PVL court. Reflecting on their years of collaboration, Madayag acknowledged the unique challenge of competing against someone with whom she shared countless moments on the same side of the net.
“I've always said that the feeling is going to be different because all this time, all these years, we've been together on one court. So it's going to be different playing against her,” shared Madayag, emphasizing the emotional aspect of the impending matchup.
Madayag is intrigued by the changes De Leon has undergone, playing under Coach Sherwin Meneses and adapting to the distinct team culture at Creamline. The anticipation is palpable as both players look forward to the clash of systems and cultures on the court.
With the departure of De Leon, a close friend and team leader, Madayag has taken it upon herself to be a guiding force for Choco Mucho. Her personal goal for the conference is clear – to be a beacon of leadership and help the Flying Titans secure the elusive championship they aspire to achieve.
The off-season proved challenging for Choco Mucho as they bid farewell to not only De Leon but also experienced libero Denden Lazaro-Revilla and spiker Caitlyn Viray. However, the team has successfully revamped its roster with strategic signings, including Mars Alba, Bia General, Mean Mendrez, and Royse Tubino.
Madayag shared insights into the team's adaptation process under the guidance of head coach Dante Alinsunurin. The newcomers are slowly but steadily assimilating into the team's system, with the existing players providing support and patience to ensure a seamless transition.
“So far, the new players are still adapting to the system, considering they are relatively new. We are exercising patience for each other so they can fully grasp Coach Dante's system,” Madayag explained, drawing parallels to their own learning curve from the previous year.
As the PVL 2024 season approaches, the Clash of Titans between Madayag and De Leon promises not only a riveting competition on the court but also a tale of adaptation, leadership, and the pursuit of championship glory for Choco Mucho.
