The COVID-19 pandemic halted not just the sports events but also stunted the players' confidence that they would be able to play the game they love once more.
Even budding, skilled players like National University's Michaelo Buddin was not spared from such uncertainties, leading the erstwhile high school stalwart to think of his future.
"Actually hindi ko inexpect na mas makakapaglaro kami. Sabi ko baka may COVID-19 pa rin, hindi na ko makabalik. Andon na yung, ay baka hindi na ko makalaro," the outside hitter recalled.
However, when NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin shared the welcome news, Buddin knew he better get back to work. And if what he showed in the 2022 Spikers' Turf Open Conference was any indication, the 21-year-old was just happy to be back.
"Sobrang malaking tulong yung Spikers' Turf kasi nung first game namin sa labas, tinamad ako. Kaya nung Spikers' Turf, nung na-first six ako, tuluy-tuloy na. Andon na yung kumpiyansa sa sarili. Every time na papasok ako, hindi na ko natatakot sa service, hindi na ko nag-dadalawang isip sa receive," he shared.
Buddin and the Bulldogs took care of both the College of Saint Benilde and University of Santo Tomas in straight sets to go to 2-0 in the 2022 V-League Collegiate Challenge and the reigning UAAP champions are off to a good start in its title ambitions.
And fans can expect Buddin to still do his part for the Bulldogs.
"Yung 100 percent best gagawin ko, hindi lang para sa 'kin syempre, kundi para sa team ko, para sa school," he ended.
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