AT first, it may sound like Pusong Azul is a brand new team in the ongoing Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Juniors National Invitationals, but scratch beneath the surface and one of Philippine volleyball’s most recognizable institutions begins to emerge.
The clues were there even before the tournament got underway.
During the league's pre-tournament press conference, the Pusong Azul contingent arrived wearing white shirts bearing a capital letter 'A' in a familiar serif typeface with an eagle embedded in the logo, both being colored blue - unmistakable symbols long associated with Ateneo.
It is yet to be categorically confirmed nor denied, however, if the league newcomer is, indeed, connected with the Blue Eagles sports program, whose men's basketball team found itself at the center of tragedy when Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili lost their lives during an ill-fated team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8.
Fresh start
The changes, however, look like they go beyond the team name.
Pusong Azul is being guided by Wattamama Macalanggan, better known in volleyball circles as coach Watta.
And Macalanggan said Ateneo's, as he himself referred to his team, rebuilding effort has been extensive.
"Ang Ateneo kasi ngayon is talagang super rebuilding pa. It came from a different program, from coach Babes [Castillo]," he said, adding they actually have players from different schools in the lineup.
The veteran coach admitted the transition remains a work in progress, as his wards continue adapting to a new system, making the SSL Juniors National Invitationals a valuable opportunity for growth rather than immediate results.
"Hindi pa kasi nagsi-sink in 'yung system na bago, 'yung sa'kin. As of now, we're still looking forward for good exposure and experience. We're looking forward na sana maipagpatuloy 'yung magandang programa na pwede naming ibigay for Ateneo,” he added.
For now, the team name may be different, but the objective stays the same: put on One Big Fight.
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