Women's volleyball coach warns bashers: 'I know my rights'

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Philippine women's national team coach Francis Vicente on Sunday warned his numerous critics to avoid personal attacks as he will not hesitate to take action against those who cross a line.

Vicente has been the subject of scorn ever since he was named head coach of the national team, with fans often questioning his credentials compared with other mentors in the collegiate and club ranks. His every move – from his selection of the roster to his substitution patterns – has been scrutinized and criticized.

The Philippines' women's volleyball team at the 29th Southeast Asian Games. Pool photo

His "bashers" were out in full force after the Philippine women's team lost to Thailand in the semifinals of the 29th Southeast Asian Games on Saturday, after which ace spiker Alyssa Valdez was seen in tears. The former Ateneo de Manila University star's famously passionate fans were clearly dissatisfied with Vicente's explanation for Valdez's reaction, and several others again questioned the team's rotation and plays.

Vicente, however, was defiant when asked about his critics after the Philippines' four-set loss to Vietnam that ended their hopes of making it to the podium.

"Hayaan mo sila. Hayaan mo sila," said Vicente. "Hindi nila alam kung ano 'yung nangyayari dito eh. Hindi nila alam kung ano 'yung pinagdadaanan namin lahat eh."

Author: Camille B. Naredo, ABS-CBN News
Full Article: http://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/08/27/17/womens-volleyball-coach-warns-bashers-i-know-my-rights