Yambao, De Vega eager to absorb lessons from Ybanez's Alas Men stint

Josh Ybanez, a two-time UAAP MVP and 1st Best Outside Spiker, recently took on a new challenge by stepping into the libero role for the Alas Pilipinas men’s program last May.

As he adapts to this new position, his teammates at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) are eager to see how his international experience will enhance their squad’s defensive capabilities.

Gboy de Vega, a key player for the Golden Spikers, expressed his enthusiasm about the potential impact Ybanez’s newfound skills could have on the team, particularly on defense.

“Excited na kami matuto sakanya, lalo na yung depensa. Even before naman magaling na siya dumepensa sa UAAP, ‘eh ngayon nakapaglaro na siya ng international games,” De Vega remarked following UST’s hard-fought five-set victory over Perpetual in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge.

De Vega believes that Ybanez’s international stint will provide the Golden Spikers with valuable insights and techniques, especially as they prepare for the upcoming UAAP season.

“Sure ako na mas marami pa siya maishe-share sa team namin para mas mapabetter pa yung team and yung floor defense,” he added.

With Ybanez temporarily absent, De Vega emphasized the importance of stepping up in leadership, particularly urging UST team captain Dux Yambao and middle blocker Poy Colinares to guide the younger players.

“Kami nila Dux at Poy, kailangan namin lahat magstep up para sa mga bata para confident din sila at mabigay namin yung confidence na kailangan nila para makagalaw sila ng maayos,” the incoming junior hitter stated.

UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape echoed De Vega’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of Ybanez’s development as a leader if the Golden Spikers are to claim the UAAP Season 87 title. Mape envisions a stronger, more confident team with Ybanez leading the charge, bolstered by the support of veterans like De Vega and Yambao.

“Yung composure na ‘yon and yung depensa, yun yung maganda na maidadala niya sa team. At the same time, yung team magkakaroon ng kumpyansa na meron silang Josh Ybanez na kasama and other veterans in Gboy and Dux,” Mape said.