Frances Ramos has embraced the challenge of switching from setter to libero for the Alas Pilipinas girls’ team in the 2nd AVC Asian Women’s U16 Volleyball Championship.
A playmaker for Saint Michael College of Caraga in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, Ramos has taken on a new role as the team’s main floor defender in the youngest national squad’s debut on the Asian stage.
She sacrificed setting plays to defending the floor for the Alas team, composed of junior high school players from different provinces.
Ramos finished with 15 digs but struggled with receptions as Alas fell to Chinese Taipei, 14-25, 21-25, 15-25, bowing out of title contention in the Final Eight round on Wednesday at Prince Hamzah Sports Hall here.
‘It was really challenging because I was the only libero, so I had to toughen up and believe that I could handle it, especially since the attackers from Taipei are really strong,’ Ramos told the Inquirer in Filipino.
The 14-year-old admitted she didn’t have much preparation for her new position but credited her coaches for helping her adjust.
‘It was a big challenge for me, especially since I was a setter during the tournament in Tacloban, and now I’m playing libero at the international level. I took on the challenge even though I wasn’t 100 percent prepared. But with the help and guidance of my coaches, I’m slowly learning and getting used to the position,’ said Ramos.
Though out of title contention, Ramos and the rest of Alas U16 continue to gain experience against Asia’s best, facing Thailand on Thursday before entering the classification phase for fifth to eighth places.
‘I’d like to thank everyone those watching live back home and here at the venue. We still have upcoming games, and we won’t stop until we get that win. I hope you’ll continue to watch and support us,’ she said.