In the world of sports, the taste of defeat can be bitter, but it can also fuel a fierce desire to succeed.
That was the case for the Iloilo volleyball team, led by national team standout Jade Disquitado.
After losing twice to Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography in the 2023 Spikers' Turf Open Conference, Disquitado and his team were determined to turn the tables in the battle for bronze.
In a thrilling match at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum last Wednesday, the young Iloilo squad secured a hard-fought four-set victory over their opponents.
Disquitado, who scored 34 points with 33 attacks, played a pivotal role in the team's success. But he was quick to credit his teammates for their contributions.
"Everyone played well. Our communication on the court was good, and everyone was really eager to make up for our losses since we didn't win a single game against Imus before," said Disquitado.
The win was a total team effort, with Deanne De Pedro adding 12 points and 14 excellent receptions, Rash Nursiddik contributing 11 markers on eight attacks, two blocks, and an ace, and Mfena Gwaza scoring nine markers.
Disquitado highlighted the importance of their preparation, saying that they had worked hard to improve their performance.
"We really prepared for them so much, that's why maybe we were able to win today," he said.
Despite the satisfaction of achieving a bronze medal finish in their first appearance in the Spikers' Turf, the Iloilo team is still hungry for success.
Disquitado and his teammates are eager to finish the tournament on a high note and have vowed to give everything they've got in Game Two.
"We are satisfied with whatever we have achieved so far because this is our first time as a team in the Spikers' Turf. Our team is like a rookie here, so we are happy even though we did not reach the championship because we are still in the battle for third place, and we are here already as first-timers. We are happy because of that," said Disquitado.
