Metro Manila, Philippines – The University of the Philippines (UP) has named Fabio Menta as the new head coach of its women’s volleyball team on Thursday, Jan. 22.
“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 in a statement.
The 64-year-old Italian tactician first came to the country in 2016 when he called the shots for Foton Pilipinas at the Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship.
Menta previously mentored national and club teams in Italy, the Bahamas, and the Cook Islands.
UP is aiming to return to the UAAP Final Four after a joint fifth place finish in Season 87.
Nina Ytang, Kianne Olango, Irah Jaboneta, Joan Monares are back for the Diliman-based squad alongside setter Jaz Manguilomotan, Casiey Dongallo, Jelai Gajero, Kizzie Madriaga, and Nigerian Ali Sarah Otukugu as they try to end a near-decade playoff drought.
The UAAP Season 88 volleyball season will begin on Feb. 14, with National University seeking for a third straight title in the women’s division.
