BAHRAIN – Alas Pilipinas U18 standout Harlyn Serneche knows the team needs to work doubly hard if it intends to go all the way in the Asian Youth Games.

The Philippine girls’ volleyball team advanced to the classification 1st–8th as it vies for a favorable spot in the quarterfinals.

Serneche urges focus and effort

“Marami po talagang pagdadaanan, parang dadaan po talaga kami sa butas ng karayom kaya kailangan po namin mag-double time sa training ‘pag wala pong laro,” said Serneche after fulfilling her role as co-flag bearer alongside boxer Leo Mhar Lobrido in the opening ceremony at the Exhibition World Bahrain on Wednesday.

Alas made the next round after finishing second in Pool D with a 1-1 record.

Powered by UAAP Season 87 girls’ volleyball MVP Sam Cantada and Palarong Pambansa star Rhose Almendralejo, the Filipinas pulled off a five-set win over South Korea to start their campaign, although they were swept by unbeaten Thailand the following game.

But the Philippines cannot afford to dwell on that loss as it is set for two all-important matches against China and Hong Kong in the newly formed Pool F that will determine its seeding in the last eight. Up first for Alas is Pool B leader China on Thursday then Hong Kong on Friday.

Team aims for consistency and composure

“Syempre po ‘yung goal po namin is makapag-championship po pero nagfo-focus po kami every game, nagfo-focus po kami na kailangan tapusin po namin every game para hindi po kami masyadong masilaw na kailangan nandoon po kami kaagad sa taas,” said Serneche.

Composed mostly of current NU Lady Bullpups players including Ysabella Cruz, Rihanna Cris Navarro, Diza Marie Berayo, and Atasha Anne Doroja, the Filipinas will face any of the four Pool E teams in the quarterfinals: Iran, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei, and Qatar.

“Mentally prepared naman po kaming lahat so nag-usap na rin po kami ng mga teammates ko kung anong dapat gawin,” added Serneche.