Petro Gazz’s success in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) is defined by the winning culture it nurtured through the trust and loyalty of its players.
Angels’ libero Bang Pineda, middle blocker Joy Dacoron and rookie setter Jules Tolentino shared the same views on how the team managed to stay competitive despite coaching changes and adversities it has faced during their guesting the DAILY TRIBUNE’s Off the Court on Thursday.
For them, Petro Gazz togetherness, professional and personal relationships, combined with being on the same page towards achieving a common goal, are the main ingredients of winning championships.
The Angels have the hardware to prove it, following their breakthrough All-Filipino Conference crown to start the year before reclaiming the throne in the recently concluded Reinforced Conference — all while transitioning from Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara, interim mentor Brian Esquibel to current tactician Gary Van Sickle.
“I think it’s the culture. And my Ates have high standards, not just with the team but also on themselves,” said Tolentino, who was tapped by Petro Gazz as its only pick at 11th overall in the last draft.
“I feel like no matter how many or how big the challenges are, my Ates can handle all of it. I think time and experience made them stronger. We face adversities together as a team.”
While other teams beef up by overhauling their roster, the Angels’ management sticks with battle-tested personnel.
“No. 1, I think, because our players have been playing together for quite some time now. If there’s any addition, the veterans know what to do to make a seamless integration,” Pineda said.