Round one of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 volleyball tournaments is officially in the books, and the Far Eastern University (FEU) men’s and women’s volleyball teams have proven their determination this season, sending excitement for the final stretch of the eliminations through the roof. As the competition heats up, there are bound to be many things to look forward to as the Tamaraws push toward the Final Four.

From intense matchups to roaring school spirit, here are five things to expect as the Tamaraws head into round two, ready to fight harder, play smarter, and bring the Morayta pride to greater heights. 

1. Tougher and more intense games

Round one was never easy to begin with, and from there, every game will only get more intense. Both teams face immense pressure as the Tamaraw Squad look to maintain their dominance.

After a flawless first round sweep, the Tamaraws aim for another perfect run for the rest of the eliminations, which could gain them an advantage to secure their spot in the finals.

Meanwhile, on the brink of the Final Four, the Lady Tamaraws are determined to win their remaining games to secure a playoff spot.

Stronger strategies, unfaltering passions, and a focus on the championship are just some of the factors that fuel the teams’ drive this round. Anticipate high-stake games ahead as every UAAP team steps up their game, making each match a true test of skill, determination, and resilience.

2. Tactical game adjustments

With the stakes even higher in round two, the green-and-gold squads are set to make key tactical adjustments in their quest for Final Four spots. Improvements in net defense, quicker ball distribution, smarter attacking patterns, and fewer errors will be crucial as both teams sharpen their gameplay and push for stronger performances. 

Guided by coaches Eddieson Orcullo and Tina Salak, the Morayta-based squads are expected to improve their tactics for the latter half of the season. A disciplined and dynamic approach among the players will be crucial as they battle for a top four finish.

3. New standouts to watch

Tactical adjustments can also be ways for more people to find their groove. Last round, Tamaraws Dryx Saavedra and Mikko Espartero, and Lady Tamaraw Gerzel Petallo have already been recognized for their performance with Collegiate Press Corps Player of the Week (CPC POW) honors. Meanwhile, new faces Vennie Ceballos, Clarisse Loresco, and Jazlyn Ellarina are also ones to keep an eye out for as they continue their stellar performances and only continue to improve in the upcoming matches.

But the rise of talent continues throughout the season, with each player continuing to improve and proving the teams’ depth in each match. The squads are packed with rookies who have given glimpses of their capabilities during round one, including Amet Bituin, Luis Miguel, Charles Abson, and Kyle Tandoc from the men’s team and Melody Pons and Lovely Lopez from the women’s. 

Watch for new standouts to emerge, as the next CPC POW may be one of the players waiting on the benches, ready to prove that the green-and-gold squad consistently produces top-tier athletes who are thirsty for success. 

4. Increased school spirit

It’s not just the athletes who are hungry for victory—Tamaraw pride will be at an all-time high as the green-and-gold community, including students, alums, and fans fueled by a ‘never give up’ attitude, ignites the athletes’ spirit with unwavering support. 

While fans showed up during round one, the need for stronger backing from the FEU TAMbayers remains steady as the Morayta-based squads vie for Final Four spots, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience from the community.  

The FEU crowd aims to show the unstoppable Tamaraw spirit, proving their passion for the game is as powerful as the players on the court. Expect the arena to be ablaze with school spirit, filled with loud chants and electrifying cheers that push the players to fight harder and be braver, igniting their quest for triumph.

5. Unyielding drive for the championship title

Both teams started strong in round one, and their hunger for victory only grew stronger. The championship title has eluded the FEU men’s team since UAAP Season 75 and the women’s team since Season 71. 

The squads also almost emerged victorious in Season 86 with the FEU Tams earning a twice-to-beat advantage and nearly clinching a finals spot before ultimately settling for bronze. Meanwhile, the Lady Tams also missed the championship, landing on the fourth spot to end the season.

The future looks bright for the FEU men’s volleyball team, ending round one with a sweep. If this dominant performance continues, the Tamaraws will earn a direct spot in the finals, while other teams will follow the stepladder format by the UAAP. 

Meanwhile, the green-and-gold volleybelles also aim to rewrite last season and claim a twice-to-beat advantage by finishing in the top two—one step forward for the Lady Tamaraws on their way to clinching a finals spot. 

Driven by past setbacks, the Tamaraws are fueled more than ever to rise above this season. With an unyielding drive to reclaim the title, FEU is fiercely determined to bring the championship back to Morayta.

With round two in full swing today, March 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the FEU volleyball squads and their passionate community are set to bring even more to the court as the Tamaraw spirit burns hotter than ever. Tougher battles, new rising players, and an unyielding drive for the championship lie ahead. Be present for an electrifying journey filled with grit, pride, and the unwavering pursuit of victory—proving that the Tamaraws are stronger and better together.

- Krizza Gabrielle Tabora
(Photos by Zedrich Xylak Madrid and Karch Rafael/FEU Advocate)