UAAP 79 Volleyball Preview: Solid floor defense makes Lady Falcons contenders

MANILA, Philippines — The Adamson Lady Falcons are always synonymous with a vaunted floor defense.

Adamson University Lady Falcons

For the team, defense is the best offense. Which is why the Lady Falcons are always a contender in the UAAP.

Their volleyball program took a big hit last year though when head coach Sherwin Meneses resigned from his post in the middle of the season. He has taken over the Lady Falcons’ coaching reins for four seasons.

Domeng Custodio, Meneses’ counterpart in the men’s team, took over but could not salvage the season.

The Lady Falcons’ seventh place finish was highlighted by a loss to the UE Lady Warriors, which snapped the Recto-based school’s four-season winless drought.

But all of that is now in the past as Adamson is bent on returning to their lethal form with a femme fatale coaching staff.

American head coach Airess Pada will lead the star-studded coaching staff consisting of local volley belles Michele Gumabao, Cherry Macatangay and Angeli Tabaquero.

With last year's skipper Mylene Paat deciding to forego her final playing year, it is up to Jema Galanza to lead the young squad.

Galanza, a prolific open spiker, had a roller-coaster season last year and must rediscover her old form to inspire the young bloods.

A formidabble coaching staff, a mix of veteran and rookies and a decent off season to prepare. Will it be enough for the Lady Falcons to make a return trip to the Final Four?

Last season's record: 3-11 (7th)

Holdovers: Jema Galanza, Jellie Tempiatura

Losses: Mylene Paat, Fen Emnas

X Factor: Jema Galanza

Prediction after eliminations: 8th-6th