Globe Volcanoes Save Strongest Team to Last

The Philippine Volcanoes are one week away from securing a Top 3 in Asia standing according to their General Manager, Jake Letts. Letts believes timing has fallen perfectly after the national team will have 18 athletes vying for 12 positions. 
 
“Our National coaches will have a headache this week, a full contingent of top athletes (18 in total)  aiming to be selected in the Top 12. A great problem to have” shared Letts  
 
The Volcanoes are coming off two positive standings in the first two rounds where the Series has been too close to call. The Philippines will be vying to finish on the podium for the first time since 2013. 
 
“Asia Rugby consists of 31 countries, the last time we ranked in the Top 3 was in 2013. Ever since then we have been floating between 5th and 10th. So, it’s great to see that the Volcanoes will once again be competing for that podium finish in the Sevens Series,” Letts added. 

Chris Arpon Bird in match against Taipei in 2nd leg of Asia Rugby 7s Series

The Volcanoes won’t have an easy path, they take on Korea (current Asian Games Bronze Medalists) and have to by pass an improving China and the ever experienced Sri Lanka. 

“Currently on the standings, there are 3 points that separate 3rd place and 6th place. Each team has either won or lost a match between each. We defeated Korea and Sri Lanka, China defeated us, Sri Lanka defeated China, Korea defeated Sri Lanka, the list goes on. It’s just too close to call. However come the last leg next weekend, the rankings will be decided as we all face off against each other again and we like our chances, considering we have defeated each of these teams at the recent events” Letts shared. 
 
Head Coach Frano Botica, and his assistants David Johnston and Performance Manager Chris Everingham have a heavy artillery to select from. Returning national players include Donald Canon Coleman, Ryan Reyes Howe and Justin Villazor Coveney will be added to the team from the last tournament. These players will only increase the Philippines chances of winning according to Everingham. 

Donald Canon Coleman

“It’s likely the most competitive Training Camp we have had for the 2018 Series, player availability wise anyways. The first two training camps have been strong and tough, however the third will be hard, if not harder, ” shared Everingham  
 
The Volcanoes will face off with Korea, Japan and Malaysia in Pool A in Colombo on October 13 and 14 at Racecourse Stadium. 
 
The team will depart Philippine shores on Thursday in preparations for the tournament  ​