As Choco Mucho continues to navigate its journey through the Premier Volleyball League, Kat Tolentino stands alone as the last remaining player from the team’s debut season in 2019. With the departure of key figures like Maddie Madayag and Bea De Leon, Tolentino has become the veteran anchor of a squad that has grown and evolved over the past five years.
Madayag, who recently moved overseas to sign with Japan’s Kurobe Aquafairies in the Japan SV.League, and De Leon, who made the switch to Creamline earlier this year, were among the original pillars of the Rebisco-backed team. But through all the changes, Tolentino has remained steadfast in her commitment to the Flying Titans.
“I guess since I've been with Choco Mucho since the beginning, I've seen how it's evolved, and I know that we have to kind of fail or lose in order to win so I've gone through many Choco Muchos where we've lost,” Tolentino reflected.
Her words resonate with the growth of Choco Mucho, which has experienced its fair share of growing pains. Despite finishing ninth in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference, Tolentino’s unwavering belief in the team's future remains evident. She sees the team's progress, no matter the setbacks, and is confident in their potential to eventually rise to the top.
“I’m not doubting the team or anything. I know that we can bounce back from this and I know that it's a process, and Choco Mucho has come so far since when I first started, so I’m just gonna keep working hard,” she said with determination.
Choco Mucho’s journey to the finals in back-to-back All-Filipino Conferences marked a significant milestone in their evolution. However, the squad's path has not been without obstacles. The loss of key players, including Madayag, has left a void. Yet, Tolentino’s leadership and perspective remain vital in the team's pursuit of greater success.
For Tolentino, the departure of Madayag is a particularly emotional transition. The two have shared a strong bond, both on and off the court, dating back to their days together at Ateneo de Manila University in the UAAP. Adjusting to life without her long-time teammate has been challenging, but Tolentino is proud of Madayag’s new chapter and is confident the team will adapt.
“Of course, it's different for me. I'm so used to playing with her as the middle but I also got used to playing with the other girls so it's nice to see our rookie Lorraine step up and fill her position,” said Tolentino, who scored 12 points in her first full game back after recovering from injury.
One of those “other girls” is rookie middle blocker Lorraine Pecaña, who took the starting role in Choco Mucho’s recent four-set loss to Petro Gazz. Despite the tough result, Tolentino expressed her gratitude for Pecaña’s performance and the opportunity for other teammates to shine.
“I’m thankful that she was able to do well today, and of course, I miss her. I’m glad that some of my other teammates are able to perform,” Tolentino added, highlighting the importance of teamwork and the development of the younger players.
As Choco Mucho moves forward, Tolentino remains a cornerstone of their rebuilding efforts.
