THE defending champion Perpetual Altas Spikers shoot for a fifth consecutive title in the NCAA Season 100 men’s volleyball tournament, which begins on Thursday at the San Sebastian College Recoletos (SSCR) Gym in Recto, Manila.
New head coach Macky Cariño, who is taking over from the late coach Sammy Acaylar, is given the unenviable the task to continue the winning tradition of the University of Perpetual Help, which is celebrating its 50th founding year.
To achieve this, Cariño will bank on team captain KC Andrade, Jefferson Marapoc, Kirth Patrick Rosos, setter Klint Mateo, Kobe Tabuga, John Castil, Dexter Arrozado, John Lituania, James Pascua and Henzron Manaloto.
The skills of rookies Kyle Gelogo, Renz Engay, Steff Rosete, Karl Jestre and liberos Annrey Galila and Magrey Abrencillo will be also be tested.
Gone from the roster is former MVP Louie Ramirez, who has completed his four playing years with the Las Piñas City-based team.
The Altas Spikers will face the San Beda Red Spikers in their opening game on February 22 at the SSCR Gym at 9 a.m.
“We will try our best to continue the winning tradition of coach Sammy. We will also dedicate our games to him,” Cariño said.
Acaylar, who passed away on January 30, 2025 due to cardiac arrest, was the architect of Perpertual Help’s 14 NCAA titles — the most by any school in the league.