De Jesus blocking social media noise, focused on forming national volleyball team

MANILA, Philippines – No amount of social media bashing can break the spirit of Ramil de Jesus as he steers the national women’s volleyball team to the 18th Asian Games.

The multi-titled mentor of De La Salle University said he would remain focused on the massive task at hand despite having some critics who are taking to the media their disapproval in the formation of the squad.

And De Jesus seems very serious in his new role.

In fact, shortly after being appointed by Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas, Inc. vice president Peter Cayco as the new national team mentor, De Jesus immediately buckled down to work and presided the first day of the open tryout at the Arellano University gym in Legarda.

Incumbent national team members Aby Marano, Kim Fajardo, Alyssa Valdez and Jaja Santiago were in attendance as well as former and current La Salle standouts like Cha Cruz, Mel Gohing, Kim Dy, Dawn Macandili, Ara Galang and Majoy Baron.

Also there were Maika Ortiz, Dindin Manabat, Mylene Paat, Jia Morado, Rebecca Rivera, Mar-Jana Philips, Sisi Rondina and CJ Rosario. 

UAAP stars like Bea De Leon, Isa Molde, Jhoanna Maraguinot, Tots Carlos, Maddie Madayag, Kyle Atienza and Bernadeth Pons as well as Petron stars Mika Reyes, Frances Molina and Rhea Dimaculangan were also invited but failed to make it.

They, however, still have a chance to try their luck when the tryout resumes on Wednesday also at the same venue.

De Jesus stressed instead of bashing, critics should just support their buildup for the prestigious continental showpiece that would be held in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta from August 18 to September 2.

“Well, I’m not a person who lurks on social media,” said De shortly after the first day of tryout where aspirants were asked to undergo drills and a short scrimmage.

“So they can say whatever they want. But for me, you can’t please these critics. They would always be there.”

“But my point is that we should organize this national team. Whoever wants to help is very much welcome. They should help before they say anything negative.”

But there seems to be no perfect national team coach than De Jesus.

He is the architect of the Lady Spikers’ golden dynasty after winning 10 UAAP crowns. He also won an All-Filipino and a Grand Prix title in the Philippine Superliga aside from other leagues like Shakey’s V-League and University Games.

More than that, he is the last mentor to steer the country to a podium finish in the Southeast Asian Games when he won a bronze medal in the 23rd biennial meet in Bacolod City 13 years ago.

Still, de Jesus admitted that he’s no miracle worker.

“I can only do so much. I can’t magic the results,” he said. “That’s why I need support not only from players, but also from team owners, schools and other stakeholders who want to help.”

“I can’t do it alone. This should be a collective effort.”