ALAS Pilipinas Women head coach Jorge Souza de Brito is open to the idea of adding more players to the national team pool. And the welcome mat is particularly spread for PVL's biggest names and rising stars.
READ: Mars Alba savors chance to finally suit up for Alas Pilipinas
Following Choco Mucho setter Mars Alba’s inclusion in the 15-woman Invitationals roster against eight-time Japanese champion Saga Hisamitsu Springs, de Brito made it clear her recruitment won't be the last and he expects other PVL stars to jump in to boost the national team in future competitions.
“Every time they play good in the PVL, any player can come (to the national team). (Mars) was an option because Choco Mucho's already out. She had the chance and I also called her and asked if she's available to join us,” de Brito said.
The setter position, in particular, is one de Brito is keen to strengthen and he is not shy to name a few who he believes could provide depth to his roster.
“Not only Mars, but all the good players (are welcome). She had the chance to stay more time with us, and also Juju (Coronel) and all the players that we have. Remember, we also have Thea, it's also an option. (Gel) Cayuna the best setter in this PVL.
“We are here for the best guys, always.”
‘Ready and prepared’
The Brazilian coach believes any addition to or withdrawal from the national team won’t disrupt the program currently underway to improve the team and make it more competitive.
It will be noted that during the last few months, there’s growing confidence within the Alas camp that the winning groove they’ve long sought is almost at hand. The team's recent performance in an international meet is proof of this.
“The guys are ready and prepared. The level of practicing, right now, it's already very good," de Brito said.
“As I said to my players, it's an opportunity to have these kinds of battle with them (foreign teams). And the most important here is for us to expose them to the good level of matches, international matches. That's what we need. It's really important.
“Without these, you can't grow.”
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