By Fibby Ann Mercado

As round one of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 volleyball tournaments officially came to a close, the Far Eastern University (FEU) men’s and women’s volleyball teams have been stepping up this season, proving that they’re more than just contenders. As they head into round two of the tourney, the Tamaraws are ready to turn hope into action, making every match a moment worth watching.

This season carries heightened importance for the green-and-gold squads, as they are determined to avoid the shortcomings that once held them back. Ensuring that mistakes will not be repeated, the Tamaraws approached every game with lessons learned. Here are four things to keep an eye on as the Morayta teams continue their journey this season.

1. Nothing is certain

Amid a season marked by unpredictability, the green-and-gold squads have relied on its established core, but are now being pushed to adapt to changing circumstances to stay composed and disciplined. 

While not all games were sweeps, the Tamaraws closed round one undefeated with a 7-0 win-loss record, proof of how experience and cohesion have translated into results. 

On the women’s side, the Lady Tamaraws navigated a tighter race. After a rocky start, the Morayta cagebelles bounced back with a three-game win streak before a sudden dip in performance against the University of Santo Tomas in their final game. They closed the first half facing necessary adjustments as team captain Gerzel Petallo’s return remains uncertain due to her shoulder injury.

Despite uncertainties, both teams have demonstrated resilience and consistency, proving that they can rise to the challenge and remain competitive as the season continues.

2. Mental toughness in high-stakes moments

Even with only one loss in Season 87, the Morayta-based men's team still finished second, which proved that early dominance alone is not enough.

Building on that experience, the Tamaraws avoided complacency in round one, this time, focusing on consistency and maturity by relying on collective effort over individual play. 

Finishing fourth last season, the Lady Tamaraws refused to let last season’s setbacks hold them captive. With improved cohesion, sharper execution, and a more disciplined approach, they are poised to emerge as an even stronger force.

FEU volleybelles head coach Tina Salak noted a noticeable improvement in the players’ characters, showing growth and resilience by staying composed despite point gaps.

Maintaining mental toughness is strengthened by the trust and camaraderie developed on and off the court, allowing the teams to stay composed when the pressure peaks.

3. Improved team chemistry

One of FEU’s greatest strengths is not just their talent, but also the bond among the players. 

The men’s and women’s squads have cultivated a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, where trust, encouragement, and camaraderie drive every play. This connection allows the Tamaraws to anticipate each other’s moves, cover for one another during tight rallies, and lift each other up after mistakes. 

Beyond the technical advantage, this unity develops mental and emotional synergy, making them capable of taking on the league’s toughest challenges together. 

4. Lessons learned

After last season’s near misses, the green-and-gold squads have approached Season 88 with a renewed focus on growth and resilience. The Tamaraws have carefully analyzed their past performances, identifying moments where momentum slipped and strategies faltered. 

This growth is evident not only in the men’s steady campaign but also in the Lady Tamaraws’ run, where even their first-round performances have served as valuable lessons.

From refining offensive plays to strengthening defensive rotations, the team has become more versatile. Each practice and match reflects their growth as a cohesive unit, showing that this season is as much about progress as it is about performance.

With the second round of the tourney now underway, expect that the FEU squads are ready to show sharpened strategies and enhanced performances as the season remains unpredictable. Driven by last season’s lessons, the green-and-gold squads are ready to prove that they are a force to be reckoned with.
(Photos by James Neil Tamayo, Ma. Louela Luna, and Melvin James Urubio/FEU Advocate)