beautiful coercion

arrows flying high

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines Collegiate Volleyball Season 72 has opened. Will the De La Salle University Lady Archers gain back-to-back championship title or will they go back to none?

Season 71 was an epic story for the Lady Archers especially for the 5 feet and 4 inches tall Manilla Santos who led her team to victory. But now, people are trying to question the consistency of the team knowing that the MVP and other key players have graduated. Last December 08, 2009 (Tuesday), I watched their first game against the winniest team, UST Tigresses, where they met great resistance. They thumped the Tigresses last season but we all know how a wounded tiger would seek vengeance. The game ended with five sets in favor with DLSU. You just can’t beat the heart of a champion. As I was watching the game, I couldn’t help myself from shouting and rejoicing for every single point the Lady Archers gained. I hold on to my seat every time long rallies occur and especially when the Tigresses were ahead. I also have to congratulate UST for fighting their hearts out and for giving the fans a quality game.

DLSU’s campaign for the championship wouldn’t be that much of a joyride considering how the other teams have leveled their game plans up and losing key players this season. Two out of the five rookies did a good job but I know in time they’ll be better players if not the best players La Salle can develop. First game jitters were present especially with the tall ladies Joanne Siy, the utility spiker and Maranao (I forgot her name), the center spiker. It was that game where avid fans miss the hard spikes and offensive blocks of Manilla Santos, Michelle Datuin, and Celine Hernandez. Fans would wonder how the game would have been with the veterans around but people don’t get younger as the seasons progress. New talents are scouted for the team and play for the school. Basing from that game, I consider DLSU as one of the top teams to beat but the ball is still round. It’s way too early to tell who’ll be the top four teams. We can only anticipate and wait for February 2010. As of now, I have high hopes for the Taft-based squad. Ladies, aim high and let those arrows fly! Animo La Salle!