Brianna and Rhose

Finally, after weeks of waiting, two of the most popular emerging volleyball champion players have committed to universities in the UAAP. Brianna Nikola Ang and Rhose Almendralejo of the nationally known Bacolod Tay Tung Thunderbolts have declared that they will play for Ateneo de Manila University and Adamson University, respectively. They are products of an enduring, continuing system created by Jose Montalbo. 

The Thunderbolts have steadily climbed in popularity through the successes of their players in events like the Palarong Pambansa, and exhibition games against collegiate teams from Metro Manila. Ang, a 5’10 middle blocker, has been one of the faces of the team for both her talent and her looks. Initially, she said that she was choosing between Ateneo and De La Salle. Two weeks ago, she and Montalbo flew to Manila to watch PVL games. Most of her photos were with Blue Eagle alumnae like Alyssa Valdez and Jia Morado de Guzman, obviously part of the courtship for her talent. This may also pave the way for her sister Czarina to play for Ateneo in the future.

Meanwhile, Almendralejo, also 16 years old, is a 5’9 outside hitter who caught national attention at the Palaro. Last week, she committed to the Adamson Lady Falcons, after long speculation regarding where she would end up.

“The first thing I will focus on is my studies,” she told this writer. “We will probably have practice first in the morning and classes after. It’s a big step for me. But my parents have been preparing me for this.”

Though the two are not the first Tay Tung graduates to migrate to Metro Manila, they will definitely not be the last. The Thunderbolts have a continuing stream of talented girls filling up younger teams that they are also playing very well. Montalbo, a very strong father figure for all of them, ensures that they focus on their studies, are disciplined with the use of electronic devices, and come to him with any problems or issues that they may have. He has almost single-handedly, lifted volleyball in Negros to where it is today. Brianna and Rhose just happened to be his two most popular products at this point in time. They will definitely open doors for their sisters and juniors in the Tay Tung program. Last year alone, the team has traveled numerous times upon the invitation of local governments who want to see them in action.

To be fair, it is not inexpensive, but extremely fulfilling for Montalbo is to see these girls grow up as great athletes and solid citizens. He is close to the families, and trusted by the parents. Sir Boy is a proven quantity in grassroots development. His tireless efforts and great selflessness have turned many young girls‘ lives around. They know their priorities, excel in what they do, and are solid citizens all around. We should all be so lucky.