From nuisance to Final Four contenders: Lady Tams determined to make semis

MANILA, Philippines: Chen Tagaod fondly remembers the time when the FEU Lady Tamaraws were just out to annoy teams in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament.

That happened in Season 84 when FEU finished last with a 1-13 slate. Things started to change in Season 85 when the Morayta-based team, handled by its very own legend Tina Salak, was just one place outside the Final Four with a 6-8 record.

Now in Season 86, carrying a 6-4 win-loss card and running in fourth place, the Lady Tamaraws, mentored by Manolo Refugia, have the inside track to make the Final Four and they are determined to do so.

“When I entered FEU, it doesn’t matter if we lose as long as we can annoy the other teams,” said Tagaod on Tuesday, April 9 following their 25-19, 25-23, 25-23 win over Adamson at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where she logged 12 points, seven excellent receptions, and four digs

“That’s how we used to be. But as time went by, when coach T (Tina) and then coach Nols (Manolo), [things have changed]Coach Nols was there from the start and never left us. We’re excited to reach the semis and we will work hard for it,” added the outside hitter.

Tagaod’s fellow third year player Jean Asis, who plays the middle blocker position, said that the Lady Tamaraws are using the past two seasons where they did not reach the semis as motivation to make the semis this time.

“We’re determined to make the Final Four after two seasons where we didn’t,” shared Asis, who posted 10 points against Adamson.

“We’re really using the two seasons where we didn’t reach the Final four as inspiration. The road to the Final Four has been difficult but now we’re on the verge of reaching it. We’re pushing ourselves further not just to reach the Final Four but also to make the podium.”

The Lady Tamaraws will next face the league-leading UST Golden Tigresses on Saturday, April 13 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.