Lady Bulldogs marvel at Meneses’ coaching

National University (NU) has built one of the most dominant programs in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball, not by staying the same, but by thriving in change.

While the Lady Bulldogs maintained a consistent player core over the past four seasons, they defied expectations by winning three championships under three different head coaches.

This unique revolving door of coaching changes would have rattled most collegiate programs. But in NU’s case, it became a feature, not a flaw, one that has strengthened the Lady Bulldogs identity instead of breaking it.

From Karl Dimaculangan’s breakthrough in Season 84, which ended a 65-year title drought, to Norman Miguel’s Season 86 redemption tour, NU has proven that its system — and more importantly, its chemistry — is resilient, adaptable and championship-ready.

Now, with the entry of multi-titled Premier Volleyball League (PVL) mentor Sherwin Meneses, the Lady Bulldogs may have finally found the long-term leader it’s been waiting for.

A seven-time PVL champion with Creamline, his appointment ahead of Season 87 turned heads across the volleyball community.

Known for his calm demeanor and proven system, Meneses took on the challenge of coaching both a collegiate contender and a professional powerhouse — and succeeded.

“Coach Sherwin’s system helped us a lot,” the NU captain and three-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Bella Belen said.

“Every coach we’ve had shaped us, but this season, I really saw how effective his approach was. The system is what we hold onto — it guides how we move on the court.”

Belen said NU’s ability to adjust under different coaches stems from one thing: trust in each other.

“Even if the coaches change, our chemistry remains. We know how to play with one another. That’s why we can adapt to any coach’s system — and still compete at the highest level,” she added.