NU spikers raring to strike back

MANILA, Philippines - With Dindin Santiago and Jen Reyes back in the fold, National University hopes to strike back in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament, which begins next month at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The Lady Bulldogs missed the Final Four last season but are upbeat of their chances to reach the semis this time and hopefully contend for the crown.

“We hope we can do well in Season 75. The players have worked hard in training. Last year we didn’t fare well, but this time, we are confident and we hope we can improve in our standing,” said coach Francis Vicente.

“The school management and our manager have been all-out in their support for us, and that has been a big factor,” he added.

The upcoming season marks the much-awaited return of the 6-foot-1 Santiago in college volley play. 

A known scorer in the Shakey’s V-League first conference last summer, Santiago has already served her two-year residency to play for NU.

Vicente believes that Santiago, who added her deadly backrow attacks in her vast arsenal, will improve her game further.

“I know she can still raise the level of her game,” said Vicente on his prized player.

A multi-awarded libero, Reyes will be a big help especially on the Lady Bulldogs’ floor defense.

Santiago and Reyes had joined forces for NU in the UAAP beach volleyball tournament last August.

Backing up Santiago and Reyes are Cai Nepomuceno and Myla Pablo and setter Ivy Perez will take care of the playmaking chores.

Junel Baculi, NU’s athletic director, said that the school’s focus in their athletic program is not only in basketball. “We have set our goals in improving our other sports teams as well, including our campaign in volleyball.”

NU begins its campaign against Adamson at 2 p.m. on Dec. 1. National University is hosting this year’s volleyball competitions.