The 2024 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference has been a stage for new beginnings and challenges, but for Est Cola head coach Wanna Buakaew, it’s not her first encounter with Philippine volleyball.
Buakaew, a former libero for the Thailand national team, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role.
Buakaew's illustrious career as a player spanned 14 years, from 2001 to 2015, during which she earned eight gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games, including the 2005 edition held in Manila. Her experience has given her a deep understanding of volleyball styles across the region, and she has observed significant evolution in the sport’s local scene.
Reflecting on her experiences, Buakaew noted, “From my experience, since I also played here in the Philippines before becoming a coach, the Philippine style of volleyball and Thailand style are really close and not different.” She continued, “But I feel like now, the Philippine style is more improved. Unlike before, when it was not so good, now every team is improved and they play a lot of combinations.”
Buakaew's Est Cola team, which is composed of players from Thailand’s under-18 and under-20 national squads, faced a rocky start in the Invitational Conference, losing their first three matches. However, they managed to secure a win in their final elimination game against Farm Fresh, a hard-fought victory that extended to five sets (22-25, 25-17, 19-25, 25-20, 17-15). Despite their struggles, this win brought some relief and a glimmer of hope.
Ending the elimination round with a 1-3 record, Est Cola is now hoping for a Farm Fresh loss in their upcoming match against Creamline. A favorable result could provide them with an opportunity to contend for the bronze medal.
Buakaew sees a significant similarity between the volleyball styles of Thailand and the Philippines, particularly in the enjoyment players exhibit on the court. “Our volleyball style, we play happy. I tell my staff not to put pressure on the players, just to encourage them to try their best,” she shared. Her approach underscores her belief in fostering a positive atmosphere, even amidst competition.
With a coaching career that follows a decorated playing history in countries such as Italy, Azerbaijan, and Germany, Buakaew remains dedicated to blending skill development with a joyful approach to the game. “However, I still talk to them about skill and techniques,” she added, emphasizing her commitment to both the technical and emotional aspects of the sport.
