USJ-R belles rekindle rivalry with USPF in volleyball event

CEBU - In a flashback of the women’s final, grandslam champion University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) will take on runner-up University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) today in the resumption of the Cebu Schools Athletics Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) volleyball tournament at the University of the Visayas (UV) gym.

The USJ-R belles of Cebu Sports Hall of Famer coach Grace Antigua, seeking a fourth straight who is now campaigning for a four-peat victory will be spearheaded by former RP youth members, Genie Sabas and Michelle Simbajon together with Cristy Aina Laroga, Joy Bonita, Avegale Getuaban and former USC Lady Warriors basketball team member, Rachel Hannah Singson, in the first six.

On the other hand, the Jordan-Paca coached-USPF, will be led by 2008 Nestea Beach Volley finalists, Ericka Camille Verano and Harlene Ybarita, Yvonne Verano, Lovena Pepito, Charrylou Paden and Apple Saraum.

The other morning games will cover the women’s division fight between Cebu Doctors University (CDU) against host, University of the Visayas (UV), followed by University of San Carlos (USC) versus University of Cebu (UC).

In the men’s side, after a four-setter thrilling battle against USJ-R last week, UV will tackle another tough contender, the defending champs, USC Spiking Warriors in a must-see battle this afternoon.

Last week’s UV-USJ-R battle is an eye opener for USC, proving that UV of Coach Raffy Briones is not that easy to be overpowered.

 The Norvie Labuga coached-USC is also in their campaign for a grand slam tilt this year and will rest on the defense and attacks of two-time Cesafi MVP Roderick Arenasa, Kennith Bensig, Dexter Tuazon, Jerone Maestre, Bonvie Estrera, Elizor Uy and Harvey Bernil.

After their fight today against UV, USC will face another tough contender, former CESAFI champions, USJ-R, in the first game tomorrow morning.

Meanwhile, first runner-up USPF men’s squad will face CDU in the first game in the afternoon while UC takes on Cebu Institute of Technology in the last game. — Marigold P. Lebumfacil (THE FREEMAN)