Ateneo de Manila University head coach Oliver Almadro sets a modest goal for his team as he tempers expectations in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women's volleyball tournament.

Despite a successful pre-season outing where the Blue Eagles ruled the inaugural V-League Collegiate Challenge last year, the mentor knows that competition this year would be tougher.

"All teams have beefed up their rosters and given a longer time to prepare before the season, this tournament will be unpredictable," Almadro, who steered Ateneo to its third and last title back in 2019, said.

"I agree with other coaches that all of the teams are the teams to beat this UAAP (season)," he added.

The Blue Eagles, who finished third last year, saw the departure of key pieces in Erika Ragas, Danny Ravena, Jaycel delos Reyes and setter Jaja Maraguinot. Pia Ildefonso will also skip the season.

But Almadro remains optimistic about their chances with holdovers seasoned veterans Faith Nisperos and Vannie Gandler, designated as co-captains, leading the crew.

"They've been my leaders since last year. After last season, they're really the ones pushing the team, bringing the team together. They really want to bounce back," he said.

"Hopefully, we can make it to the finals this year, and they are the ones I see that are really determined to lead the team. I'm really happy to have leaders like them."

The Blue Eagles will also see a much-improved pair of middles in Joan Narit and Alexis Miner, Lyan de Guzman, setter Takako Fujimoto and libero Roma Mae Doromal.

"I told them, if we want to make it to the finals, let's work hard and have an opportunity first to be in the Final Four. When you're in the Final Four, you have a chance to be in the finals. That's the realistic goal," Almadro said.

The Blue Eagles will be tested early when they face defending champion National University today at the Mall of Asia Arena at 2 p.m.