The University of the Philippines has appointed Italian coach Fabio Menta to lead its women’s volleyball team as the Fighting Maroons gear up for UAAP Season 88.
The University of the Philippines is turning to international experience to lead its women’s volleyball team, appointing Italian coach Fabio Menta to guide the Fighting Maroons into UAAP Season 88.
Menta, 64, brings a wealth of coaching experience from stints in Italy, the Bahamas, and the Cook Islands, as well as a recent role consulting for Premier Volleyball League teams Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee under Strong Group Athletics (SGA).
"We are excited to see how coach Fabio will bring out the best in this young and very promising roster that we have. Lahat tayo sa UP ay nagtitiwala at naniniwala that the Final Four is very much within our reach," said UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol.
The Italian tactician first came to the Philippines in 2016, leading Foton Pilipinas, the national team-backed iteration of the Foton Tornadoes, at the Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship.
UP is looking to improve on last season’s 6–8, joint-fifth finish under coach Benson Bocboc, a campaign highlighted by victories over eventual champion National University and runner-up De La Salle University.
Veterans Nina Ytang, Kianne Olango, Irah Jaboneta, Joan Monares, and setter Jaz Manguilomotan will be joined by newcomers Casiey Dongallo, Jelai Gajero, Kizzie Madriaga, and Nigerian student-athlete Ali Sarah Otukugu, giving the Fighting Maroons a blend of experience and fresh talent.
"He brings a good system which the team needs. We know what to do inside and outside the court because of that good system," said Jaboneta.
With Menta at the helm, UP enters the new season determined to challenge for a Final Four berth and end nearly a decade-long playoff drought.
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Inna Mina is a sportswriter with a passion for telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
She covers running, athletics, and other major Philippine sporting events, while also following grassroots sports, athlete journeys, and women in sports. Her work also includes lifestyle stories on health, fitness, and community.