NU looks to new leaders in V-League

As National University (NU) gears up for a bid for their fifth consecutive championship in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament, head coach Dante Alinsunurin is placing his trust in new leaders to drive the team forward. 

With the departure of key players Owa Retamar and Nico Almendras, Alinsunurin is turning to seasoned veterans Leo Aringo and Buds Buddin to step up and lead the Bulldogs.

Aringo, an incoming senior, and Buddin, now entering his third year with NU, have been given significant leadership roles. 

The decorated coach emphasized their importance in ensuring the team's continuity and success.

“Well, ngayon obviously si Aringo at si Buddin. Sila namang dalawa ‘yung tumutulong sakin ngayon para mas maging maayos ‘yung takbo ng team,” said Alinsunurin after NU’s 25-19, 25-23, 25-15 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge. 

“Sobrang thankful ako. Kahit papaano, unti-unti, nagkakaroon kami ng magandang usapan ni Aringo at Buddin para mas maging maganda ‘yung pag-lead nila sa team.”

In the recent match, Aringo demonstrated his scoring prowess with a standout performance, amassing 17 points from 13 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace.

Buddin, on the other hand, showcased an all-around game, contributing 13 points, including 12 from attacks, and providing crucial defensive plays with nine excellent receptions and five excellent digs.

Aringo, who has been designated as the team captain, acknowledged the challenge of filling the leadership void left by the departed seniors. 

“Actually, ‘yung wino-workout namin ngayon is hindi sa skills, ang wino-workout namin ngayon as a team is ‘yung communication namin and leadership kasi ‘yun nga, malaking kawalan ‘yung mga seniors namin na leaders namin,” Aringo explained.

Embracing the responsibility, Aringo is determined to rise to the occasion. “Malaki siyang responsibility para sa akin kasi bago lang ako sa first six, last year lang. Ngayon, ginagawa ko naman lahat ng makakaya ko. Kung may kulang pa, gagawin ko para mapanindigan ko ‘yung responsibilities na binigay sakin ng mga coaches.”