The Philippine Online Chronicles

The most awaited volleyball tournament in the Philippines, which brought us the likes of volleyball icons Rachel Ann Daquis and Mary Jean Balse, unfolds once again this November. With its tradition of thrills and surprises, the UAAP Indoor Volleyball competition season 74 promises to surmount expectations from the growing volleyball crowd.

Like in past seasons, the UAAP Volleyball competition will showcase new but promising players who will eventually be the icons of their respective generations. Let us take a look at the most anticipated volleyball players of the new season.

The Ateneo Triad

Gemenea Ferrer, Fille Cainglet and Dzi Gervacio are seemingly ordinary college girls studying in Ateneo De Manila University. But don't be fooled--they are deadly inside the volleyball court.

Debuting in 2006, the three carried the burdens of Ateneo’s campaign for the volleyball crown after the loss of key players such as ace setter, Carla Bello and popular volleyball icon turned coach, Charo Soriano.

As rookies they faced high expectations and delivered. However immaturity and lack of cohesiveness contributed to their defeat and frustration.

But recently, the three proved that they are mature enough to satisfy Ateneo’s thirst for the UAAP Women’s Volleyball crown. Cainglet, awarded the Rookie of the Year medal in her freshman year, has developed into a cerebral player, varying from powerful attacks to momentum shaking tips. Ferrer was named two time best setter in the league and will always be a crucial element in making the offense of the team work. Gervacio, on the other hand, was a great defender and powerful hitter as well.

In-born skills and athleticism powered by maturity – truly a deadly combination for the Eagles.

Alyssa Valdez

Three-time Most Valuable Player, UAAP Junior Athlete of the Year, Junior National team member – Alyssa Valdez and her well adorned shoulders is a great addition to the collegiate volleyball league. Graduating from the University of Santo Tomas High School, Valdez immediately transferred to Ateneo De Manila University for her tertiary education.

Gladdened by the new recruit, the Ateneo squad immediately tested the 18-year-old newbie, making her their newest reinforcement in off season tournaments such as the Shakey’s V-league. As expected, she delivered and even wowed the crowd with her aerial stunts and powerful hits. She even topped score charts with a consistent game.

This UAAP season, the rookie will be tested by the intense new brand of competition. The burden now lies in this promising entry whether Ateneo Lady Eagles will win the championship, a feat to overshadow the third place finish of the team last year – the highest award reached ever since they joined the league in 1978 .

Many sports analysts believe that Valdez will bag this season’s Rookie of the Year plum. And we will not be surprised if she did, for the level of volleyball she carries will totally redefine the UAAP Volleyball tournament.

Michelle “G-Force” Gumabao

Michelle Gumabao of the De La Salle Lady Spikers stands as proof that textbook volleyball is still the key to winning the game. Her brand of volleyball is simple – no frills and explosive athleticism.

La Salle, known for being the training ground for great defenders whether on the court or on the net, has once again reared a great blocker in the person of Gumabao. She was awarded the Best Blocker award in her rookie year and has ever since been the enemy of attackers.

With the key loss of Stephanie Mercado, daughter of sports icon Lydia De Vega, and Jacq Alarca, the team needs to double their efforts to maintain the level of their play to ultimately defend their title. Gumabao, shadowed by the many superstars of the team, is anticipated to lead the team and to continue the Archer’s reign on the volleyball court. Will she live up to the challenge? If she does, then this is once again bad news for other teams.

Maru “Baby Dynamite” Banaticla

The baby dynamite exploded from a sea of superstars in the UST Tigresses team. In her rookie days, she wowed fanatics with her powerful spikes and high vertical leap. She was even compared to the likes of Angeli Tabaquero and Angela Benting because of her performance.

Although her bite started to dwindle last season, she is still a formidable force in the UST team – you cannot misjudge the level of play she brings to the volleyball court. A great defender and a hard-working player, the determination she signals as she plays is what makes her a player to watch out for in the next season.

Photo taken from Edward Allen L. Lim on Flickr. Some rights reserved.