UAAP 79 Volleyball Preview: The return of the Tigresses?

MANILA, Philippines — Once upon a time, they were the team to beat. 

University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses

But with the resurgence of other teams, the UST Golden Tigresses slowly faded in the background.

After missing the Final Four bus for four seasons, Season 79 looks like the year the Tigresses will finally book a return trip to the post season.

Now on his second season as head coach, Emilio "Kung-Fu" Reyes Jr. has the tools to rock the league.

Most of his starters are battle ready after suiting up for different club teams in the off season.

EJ Laure and Cherry Rondina suited up for Foton Tornadoes in the PSL and the Asian Women's Club Championship.

Ria Meneses, Alex Cabanos and Rica Rivera meanwhile played for the Generika Life Savers.

Veteran Pam Lastimosa will also return for her last year after missing last season due to an ACL injury.

The Tigresses also worked on their chemistry after joining various pre-season tournaments.

Although they had an early exit in the Shakey's V-League Collegiate Conference, they surprised everyone when they reached the semifinals of the Reinforced Conference, even defeating teams with imports.

UST also ruled the 2016 Unigames in Dumaguete defeating UAAP champions DLSU in the process.

To top their year-long preparation, the team went to Thailand for a ten-day training camp, a first in UST sporting history.

With a very productive off-season, it is up to the Tigresses to translate this to a comeback in the Final Four.

Last season's record: 5-9 (6th)

Holdovers: EJ Laure, Cherry Rondina, Ria Meneses, Alex Cabanos, Rica Rivera

Losses: Carmela Tunay, Jessey de Leon

Returnee: Pam Lastimosa

X factors: Pat Rasmo and Rica Rivera

Prediction after eliminations: 3rd-5th