NU spikers score another golden double

MANILA, Philippines – National University turned back University of Santo Tomas in the girls and boys Finals to complete another twinkill in the UAAP Season 79 high school volleyball tournament at the Adamson U gym yesterday.

Playmaker Joyme Cagande bucked a bout with fever and a shoulder injury and delivered the goods in the fourth for the Lady Bullpups, who repulsed the Junior Tigresses, 25-22, 25-23, 15-25, 25-20, to annex their third consecutive crown.

With Finals MVP Billie Jean Anima on the firing end, NU swept UST, 25-15, 25-18, 25-19, for its second straight boys championship.

The Bullpups’ squads both won the best-of-three series, 2-1, to cap their domination of the high school competitions.

The 17-year old Cagande displayed a scintillating performance in a reserve role as the reigning Best Setter set up plays well for newly minted tournament MVP Faith Nisperos, middle hitter Thea Gagate and Princess Ann Robles in the fourth to anchor NU’s victory.

“Importante sa akin ang championship. Kung ano ang nararamdaman ko, laban lang,” said Cagande, a Grade 11 student. “Gusto namin ma-inspire ang mga tao.”

Coach Babes Castillo went to his second setter 13-year old Camille Lamina in the first two sets. But inexperience did her in as the Junior Tigresses bounced back strong in the third.

With Cagande in the game, NU’s offense stabilized.

“This is a one great story,” said Castillo. “Hinugot ang lakas namin sa isa’t isa. I’m very proud of the girls.”

The Bullpups won all of the 12 girls elimination round matches and took the Finals opener before the Junior Tigresses stormed back in Game 2 behind Eya Laure.