Mavs toughen up, eye Volcanoes berths

The Makati Mavericks continued to flash top form, posting victories and toughening up by competing in various tournaments here and abroad with an eye on berths in the Philippine Volcanoes.

The Mavericks’ Ryan Santos, also the skipper of the Philippine Volcanoes Under 18s, also saw action in the Asia Rugby Under 18s Sevens Tournament in Taipei recently, slugging it out with the top players from Sri Lanka, UAE, Singapore and the host country.

On the local front, the Mavericks made it to the semifinals of the Fat Boy 10s’ rugby tournament at the Challenger Field in Clark, Pampanga, and went head-to-head with the Cebu Dragons for the Plate Division title.

“It ended up with the Mavericks facing the Dragons and we are more than delighted,” said Mavericks senior men’s team coach Alex Aronson, adding “I am happy and very proud that we keep on improving and becoming better.”

Aronson stressed that the Mavericks hurdled their opponents by relying closely on their rivals’ physical abilities and resistance.

“Strategies change depending on the team. Since some of our rivals were heavier, we tried to spread the ball wide and make them run around. We tried to take advantage of the age and the weight. On other teams, we toughened up on defense,” said Aronson.

He also stressed the need for the Mavericks to stay focused and in shape all throughout their campaign.

“When we are on the field, we just enjoy playing rugby and making the most of our participation. But at the same time, we make sure we become as strong as we plan,” said Aronson, adding that they hope the Mavericks will all make it to the national team, the Philippine Volcanoes.