THE Philippines A team of Jade Becaldo and Louijie Tipgos lost to host Thailand, 21-13, 21-16 in the round-of-16 of the beach volleyball tournament in the 4th Asian Beach Games.
The Philippines B team of Edmar Bonono and Edward Ybañez failed to advance to the round-of-16 after losing to Japan’s Yuya Ageba and Yoshiumi Hasegawa, 21-19, 14-21, 11-15.
Becaldo and Tipgos may have lost their chance to advance to the next level but their campaign in the tournament has earned them the respect of the other teams.
“Many players and coaches from the different countries appreciate how our team played.
They said we’re smart and fast. Even though we’re small compared to other teams, but what they saw in us is our fighting spirit. They always say ‘Filipinos are good, never give up and are very fast,’” said Tipgos.
Tipgos said that reaching the round-of-16 was an achievement and having a chance to play against the seeded team of Thailand was a good opportunity to gauge themselves in what areas they need to improve.
“We really need to have more training to qualify for the finals. I believe height doesn’t matter, as long as you know how to play smart inside the court.
Communication with your partner is important, too. Teamwork is the key to win every match,” said Tipgos. “For me our team was not that weak and it’s not yet too late for us to develop in this kind of sport and become future champions.”