National University head coach Dante Alinsunurin sees a bright future for his prized rookie Buds Buddin.
Buddin played a vital role in the Bulldogs’ unbeaten three-peat run in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament, putting up consistent numbers on offense and defense as well as displaying maturity beyond his years.
Alinsurin can’t help but rave about his winger’s work ethic and discipline throughout his debut season.
“He works very hard every day in training. Every time he needs something addressed or notices something wrong, he doesn’t hesitate to ask us about it,” the mentor said of his recruit from NU-Nazareth.
Buddin, who was named 2nd Best Open Spiker, was particularly explosive during the best-of-three finals as he averaged an impressive 23 points per outing in NU’s sweep of University of Santo Tomas for its fifth title overall.
Eligible to play for the next four years, Buddin is expected to lead the Bulldogs in the coming seasons to extend their reign.
“It’s important that he continues with the discipline he has been showing during practices and games. It’s also important that he listens to his seniors,” Alinsunurin said.
‘He has a bright future ahead not only here in the Philippines but I also believe he’ll have an international career in the future.’
“Hopefully, his success won’t get into his head and he stays humble because he has a lot of playing years remaining,” he added.
“He has a bright future ahead not only here in the Philippines but I also believe he’ll have an international career in the future.”
The power-hitter displayed a lot of promise right even during the pre-season when he led NU to the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference crown when the Bulldogs beat powerhouse club Cignal in the finals.
Buddin, who was awarded Finals Most Valuable Player in the 2022 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, was just grateful for the trust given to him by Alinsunurin.
“I’m just thankful for the trust coach Dante gave me since the Spikers’ Turf until now,” Buddin said.
“I’m really grateful for Coach’s guidance and he’s there along with my seniors to correct my mistakes,” he added. “I promise you, coach, that you will see the same hard work from me and will always go all-out for the team.”
