It was a difficult stint for the Vietnamese side, but it will only grow stronger.
Vietnam’s Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh could not quite net a win in its stint as one of two guest teams in the PVL Invitational Conference, but it does not mean it is not taking any positives out of the experience.
Huong Nguyen, Bac-Bac Ninh’s captain, underscored the team’s growth, in particular, as it faced the country’s top PVL teams and Japan’s Kurashiki Ablaze.
"We learned so much from this tournament,” Nguyen told the PVL through an interpreter in an article posted on its website. “We gained a lot of experience, and the Philippine and Japanese teams demonstrated exceptional technique and teamwork."
Yes, it was a learning experience for the Vietnamese side, and Nguyen knows precisely what her team needs to work on upon returning to Vietnam.
"My team needs to improve its skills further and learn a lot from the Philippine and Japanese teams," added Nguyen, whose squad could sure use what they have learned in its preparations for the upcoming Volleyball Vietnam League.
Apart from the invaluable experiences on the court, Nguyen and her teammates will also bring home mostly happy memories—like the warm welcome Filipino fans gave them and the hospitality they received throughout their stay in the country.
"This is the first time that I've joined a big tournament. I saw how crowded the venue was, and I'm very happy to have played in this tournament," Nguyen further shared.
It is no surprise then that Bac-Bac Ninh would welcome a return engagement—should the PVL call calling again in the future.
"Yes, of course, if we're invited again, we will work on improving our skills and bring a strong team to the Philippines one more time," she added.
In that case, Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh may very well come back a stronger, better team