In the PVL, leadership is often as prized as technical prowess.
For Roma Mae Doromal, former team captain of the Ateneo Blue Eagles, these qualities converge into a promising future as she transitions to the professional ranks.
Doromal, known for steering Ateneo through UAAP challenges, believes her leadership experience sets her apart among the hopefuls vying for spots in the PVL's inaugural draft.
“I feel like other than sa skills na naipon ko, siguro ‘yung leadership talaga inside the court,” Doromal shared during the PVL Draft Combine, reflecting on her tenure guiding the Blue Eagles under Brazilian coach Sergio Veloso.
Under Veloso's mentorship, Doromal blossomed into a strategic leader, a role she intends to continue in the PVL.
"Hinelp kasi ako ni Coach Sergio to become a leader talaga. So ‘yun talaga ‘yung for sure na madadala ko [sa PVL],” she affirmed.
Beyond leadership, Doromal emphasizes her technical skills, forged during rigorous training with Veloso and her time at Ateneo.
In UAAP Season 86, she ranked highly in both digging and receptions, showcasing her proficiency in the libero position.
“Yung mga skills din na tinuro [ni Coach Sergio] in terms sa technicalities, ‘yun talaga ‘yung mahhelp ko. Hopefully maturuan ko rin ‘yung iba kong teammates, even with ‘yung mga skills na bago na hindi nila alam,”Doromal expressed.
Doromal's decision to enter the PVL Draft stems from a burning desire for a championship, an achievement that eluded her during her collegiate career despite reaching the UAAP semifinals in Season 84.
“Yun talaga ‘yung pinanghahawakan ko rin this time hindi pa ako nakaka-championship. Hopefully talaga sa PVL magawan ko siya ng paraan and yun, magkaroon ng championship,” she shared with determination.
Having completed her undergraduate degree in Communication, Doromal chose to pursue one last stint with Ateneo before setting her sights on professional volleyball.
As Doromal prepares to embark on this new chapter, her blend of leadership, technical prowess, and championship hunger positions her as a formidable addition to any PVL roster.
