Team D’Navigators-Iloilo may have exit the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Conference but they got praises as a newbie team.
The Ilonggos journey in the conference was considered remarkable as they wowed the spectators in one of the prestigious volleyball tournaments.
As a debuting team comprised of young players, they were not even considered early title favorites by experts and analysts alike. However, the D’Navigators proved everyone wrong by securing a spot in the Top Four and a chance at a podium finish.
Despite a strong start, the team fell from the hands of AMC-Cotabato in the points ratio tiebreak system. Settling for the battle for bronze, Iloilo is now gearing up to face Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography in a best-of-three series.
The Imus team is one of only two teams that Iloilo has yet to defeat this conference, but head coach John Kenneth Panes is determined to break that record.
The team’s budding superstar, Jade Disquitado has been outstanding in their games against AJAA Spikers, dropping 32 and 30 points, respectively. However, both performances fell short in securing a win for Iloilo.
According to Panes, if one player is lost, they will surely lose. “Jade is the only one who wants to fight, and the others are not connecting,” said Panes.
During the Wednesday’s clash, Iloilo will make the necessary adjustments and Panes hopes that his players will work together as a team and exhibit discipline and respect on the court.
“For a young team like Iloilo, making it to the Top Four is already a huge achievement, but we are not content with just that. We are blessed because we have reached this far. My players have been gradually working hard. Our dream in our first season here in the Spikers’ Turf is to make it to the Top Four,” said Panes.IMT Sports
