In the realm of Philippine volleyball, one name has resonated with unwavering dominance: the Philippine Air Force Airmen.
Before the world turned upside down with the pandemic's onset, the Airmen were the indisputable monarchs of the Spikers' Turf.
The legacy began in 2015 when the Airmen, then known as the Jet Spikers, soared into the inaugural season of the country's premier men's league.
What followed was a saga of unparalleled triumph, a testament to their prowess and dedication.
From 2015 to 2019, the Airmen etched their mark on the podium, their presence looming large even during the transition to the Premier Volleyball League Men's Division. Four championships, four silvers, and two bronzes adorned their illustrious journey, a saga of resilience and grit.
The annals of Air Force volleyball history boast luminaries who once graced the court in the pursuit of glory. Names like Jeff Malabanan, Jessie Lopez, Bryan Bagunas, and Howard Mojica echo through time, their contributions immortalized in the golden chapters of the Airmen's saga.
Even amidst the shifting tides of time, the spirit of excellence endures.
Ranran Abdilla, Edwin Tolentino, and JR Labrador, stalwarts from the golden era, stand resolute in the face of new challenges, their determination unwavering as they guide a new generation.
As the curtains rise on the 2024 Open Conference, a new chapter unfolds for the Airmen. With a roster infused with youthful vigor and boundless potential, the dreams of resurgence take flight once more.
Assistant coach Jessie Lopez, a stalwart of the glory days turned mentor, harbors a singular ambition: to witness the Air Force reclaim its rightful place atop the Spikers' Turf.
“At least ngayon nakikita na namin na may future sila kasi mga bata galing collegiate, dito syempre sa Spikers’ Turf medyo ang labanan dito pangulangan na talaga mga experienced na talaga,” said Lopez as the Airmen included young recruits in their roster this season. ?
“Step by step kami hanggang makabalik ulit kami sa tuktok ng Spikers’ Turf kasi namimiss ko rin na makita yung Air Force na nandoon lagi sa one and two,” added the setter-turned-coach.
Among the rising stars, Bryan Jaleco shines with an incandescent brilliance. A beacon of hope amidst the shadows of adversity, his prowess on the court echoes the legacy of his predecessors, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Airmen.
“Alam naman ng karamihan na yung Air Force team pioneer team dito sa Spikers’ Turf so ako namimiss ko yun kasi player pa ako noon,” said Lopez.
“Ngayon as a coach na, syempre ang main goal namin ni Coach Jeff Malabanan ibalik yung Air Force sa taas.”
Yet, Lopez understands the path to redemption is fraught with obstacles. Patience, perseverance, and unwavering resolve shall pave the way forward.
Together with Coach Jeff Malabanan, they pledge their unwavering commitment to the cause, steadfast in their pursuit of greatness.
“It takes time. Syempre system yan. Volleyball naman is all about system and syempre yung progress.”
