THE previous year was indeed a challenging season for school sports as it hibernated due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

For Bacolod Tay Tung High School (BTTHS) Thunderbolts Coach Biboy Calamba, the pandemic affected much the overall flow of their volleyball program.

"The pandemic has affected much of our program since our program usually begins in March -- unfortunately the pandemic started. We really adjusted our program," he said.

"We also started our online training around late September. However, the players had a hard time adjusting," he added.

One of the heartbreaking situations among the student-athletes was the suspension to eventually cancellation of last year's regional athletic meet and the Palarong Pambansa.

Calamba shared how hard it was to explain to their players, especially those who are graduating why the event was dropped.

"It was really hard to tell the players since our goal then is to win the regional and the Palaro as we are the reigning silver medalists in the nationals. The players really felt sad but we tried to find ways to explain. And, with the help of Sir Boy [Montalbo], they were able to understand and accept it," Calamba stressed.

To keep the players fit while under pandemic, Thunderbolts initiated a home-based training. However, weak internet connections in some areas where Tay Tung players live made it difficult for the coaches to monitor.

"So, our second option is for them to send their training videos. If we find mistakes in the executions, we correct them," he said.

Aside from physical training, Thunderbolts also came up with programs that will keep their players mentally, emotionally and spiritually affable during these hard times.

"I look forward that this year 2021 will be favorable and that issues on this virus will eventually resolve so we can return to our normal life," Calamba said.