Ateneo claimed the UAAP women’s badminton title by blanking University of the Philippines, 3-0, on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall.
The title win was Ateneo’s first in five years and fourth overall – thanks to the inspiring show of Chanelle Lunod.
Lunod made the day right for Ateneo by beating Poca Alcala, 21-19, 14-21, 21-16, in the first singles before the Lady Eagles got the needed buffer after Samantha Ramos rallied from a set down to dispose Jessie Francisco, 16-21, 21-17, 21-16, in the second singles.
Lunod and Geva de Vera, who later became co-tournament MVPs, dominated Leah Inlayo and Mary Ann Marañon, 21-13, 21-8, in the first doubles to seal the deal for Ateneo.
In the Finals opener, the Lady Eagles stunned the Lady Maroons, 3-2.
Before sweeping top-ranked UP, Ateneo overcame twice-to-beat NU in the Final Four to make it to the Finals after missing the bus last year.
Prior to winning this one, the Lady Eagles last ruled in 2013 behind Rookie-MVP Jana de Vera, Geva’s sister.
