by Kristel Satumbaga
Alyssa Valdez’s phenomenal rise as volleyball queen started during her Ateneo stint.
But if you will ask her which team she prefers to win this year’s UAAP women’s volleyball, Valdez would uncharacteristically turn shy.
That’s understandable through.
Having played for UST in high school before moving to Ateneo in college, the 25-year-old Valdez does not want to create a bad impression since she’s so grateful to both schools.
Actually seeing her two former schools battling for the championship crown makes her proud already.
“I’m just happy na both na pinanggalingan kong schools, andito na sa finals. They deserved to be here,” said Valdez.
Wearing UST’s colors, Valdez led the Tigress Cubs to three UAAP girls titles where she also claimed three Most Valuable Player honors.
She continued her dominance and leadership in the court with Ateneo in college, steering the Lady Eagles to two UAAP titles and multiple individual accolades that include three Season MVP plums and one Finals MVP award.
Knowing the attitude of players from both teams, Valdez expects a hard-fought match.
“Gusto ko lang ng isang magandang laban kasi alam kong both teams naghirap para makarating dito. So ang ine-expect natin, both teams ibibigay ang buong puso nila,” Valdez said. (I just want a good fight because I know that these teams play with their hearts.)
“I think they both deserved the championship but kaso isa lang talaga yung mananalo so good luck na lang to both teams,” added Valdez.