Julia Coronel is taking on the team captain role for the Galeries Tower Highrisers as they look to be more competitive in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Being one of the youngest players on the roster hasn’t stopped Julia Coronel from stepping into a leadership role for Galeries Tower as they navigate a revamped lineup in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Coronel admitted the responsibility took some adjustment, especially on a Highrisers squad that is composed of young players and veterans carrying far more experience.
“Actually, I’m one of the youngest on the team right now,” Coronel told One Sports. “Pero binigyan ako ng leadership role nila coach, and nakakatuwa siya.”
While she carries the team captain title, Coronel made it clear that leadership won’t rest on her shoulders alone.
“Sinabi ko naman sa kanila na everyone can be a leader on the court,” she explained.
“Knowing na ‘yung mga ates have a lot more experience than I do, I really need everyone’s cooperation and help para madali namin ‘yung team this conference.”
Players with a point to prove
Galeries Tower underwent major changes in the offseason, bringing in practically a whole new roster, many of whom Coronel said are motivated to prove themselves.
“Kitang-kita sa ensayo na they have something to bring to the table,” she said. “Hindi man sila starters sa previous teams nila, pero sila ‘yung parang naging kulang sa amin.”
In their first outing in the All-Filipino tilt, several of the team’s new signings have already made early impressions, such as veteran Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, rookie Erika Deloria, and new pieces in Erika Raagas, Gayle Pascual, and Cams Victoria.
Despite the opening-day defeat, Coronel believes that the additions have helped address specific gaps the Highrisers struggled with in past conferences.
"Maganda ‘yung naging addition nila sa team namin kasi parang sila ‘yung naging kulang samin, and it's nice that they were able to fill in ‘yung mga hinahanap namin,” Coronel said.
[ALSO READ: Erika Raagas on renewed motivation with Galeries Tower: ‘Still have lot to show’]
A much more competitive Galeries Tower
With the group still finding its rhythm after coming together later than most teams, Coronel remains optimistic about Galeries Tower’s chances to be more competitive this time around.
“Yes, very much,” Coronel said when asked about her confidence in the squad. “Mas confident ako na kaya naming makipagsabayan with the other teams.”
“One game at a time, one day at a time. Medyo late na rin kami nabuo, so we’ll keep adjusting as the tournament goes on,” she added.
[ALSO READ: Aiza Maizo-Pontillas excited for new PVL chapter with rebuilding Galeries Tower]
Next up for Galeries Tower will be the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Ynares Center Montalban.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.