MANILA, Philippines – It’s going to be a very challenging journey for the national women’s team after it landed on a tough group following the drawing of lots in the volleyball competition of the 18th Asian Games late Thursday.
The Nationals would get an early encounter with regional powerhouse squads Thailand and Indonesia and test the mettle of Japan in this prestigious tournament set to unwrap in Jakarta next month.
Also in Pool A is Hong Kong, a squad that is very familiar to the Filipinos after it campaigned in the Philippine Superliga a couple of times before.
National team head coach said the battle would never be easy, but he’s thankful that the draw is aligned with their objective of gaining experience to come up with a podium finish in the 30th Southeast Asian Games next year.
“Thailand and Indonesia are two of the teams we’re preparing for in the SEA Games next year. So getting a chance to meet them at the group stage of the Asian Games is something we’ve been praying for,” said Delos Santos, whose wards will march into its first PSL Invitational Conference battle against Cocolife on Saturday.
“Of course, Japan is a prototype Asian team. We’re looking up to them and we want to train with them as much as possible so playing with them early (in the Asian Games) is really a big bonus.”
Delos Santos, however, said the battle would never be easy.
“The Asian Games is not easy,” he said, wary of the Indonesians who are tipped to be at their best to deliver an impressive finish in their home arena.
“Every game will be very challenging. That’s why we’re training and preparing hard so we can come up with a good fight and gain the exposure and confidence we need for the SEA Games next year.”
Meanwhile, another regional heavyweight Vietnam landed on Pool B with South Korea, China, Chinese Taipei, Kazakhstan and India.
After the Asian Games, the Nationals will get another major exposure when they see action in the Asian Senior Women’s Championship in Thailand in September.