The University of Santo Tomas teammates of season MVP Cherry “Sisi” Rondina are hoping to give their graduating team captain a graceful exit.
That is why members of the Tigresses are eager to take Game 2 of the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines women’s volleyball tournament.
“Graduating na po si ate. Gusto po namin, maganda ang exit niya kasama kami,” said open spiker Ysabel Jamie Jimenez as the Tigresses shoot for the crown when they meet the Ateneo Lady Eagles at 4 p.m. today at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The 19-year-old Jimenez was among those who stepped up with Eya Laure and Alina as they helped Rondina at the frontline.
The Tigresses are all set in taking their best-ever season in seven years if they win the crown via a 2-game sweep of the eliminations.
The Tigresses made a big stand in the third set and put away the Ateneo Lady Eagles, 25-17, 25-16, 25-20, last Saturday in Game 1 at the Araneta Coliseum.
UST is not only seeking their first title in nine years. The Tigresses are also looking for their second triumph against Ateneo since 2012.
UST coach Kung Fu said they hope to clinch the crown today.
“We celebrate and go back to the drawing board. Hangga’t ‘di pa tapos, hindi pa kami titigil. Kailangang pagandahin pa ang mga galaw nila, para less ang errors namin,” said Reyes.
The Lady Eagles, behind the defense of Kat Tolentino, Julianne Samonte, Bea de Leon and Maddie Madayag could still spoil things for UST if they bounce back in Game 2.
Earlier, the National University Bulldogs will meet the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in Game 2 of the men’s finals.
The Bulldogs, coached by Dante Alinsunuran, need to sweep their best-of-three finals to retain the crown.