Two-time defending champion College of Saint Benilde tries to extend its winning streak while Letran seeks to end a 25-year title drought when they square off in Game 1 of the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Season 99 women’s volleyball championship at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Sunday.
The Lady Blazers, who swept the nine-game elimination to reach the final for the third time, face the Lady Knights at 2 p.m.
“Expectations aside, all teams are on equal footing when they get to the finals. Both teams have to execute their plans and strategies come game time,” CSB coach Jerry Yee said in a previous interview.
Letran's impressive showing this season can be attributed to new coach Oliver Almadro, a four-time UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines) champion while with Ateneo.
“I am not the only one excited. The whole community of Colegio de San Juan de Letran shares this excitement. It's been a while since the school qualified for the finals,” Almadro said in a statement.
Letran, which finished No. 2 with a 7-2 record, pulled off a 25-15, 25-21, 19-25, 19-25, 15-11 win over Lyceum of the Philippines in the stepladder semifinal on May 15 to claim the second final berth.
CSB qualified outright because of its unbeaten record.
“We are so blessed to have reached this far in NCAA Season 99, thanks to the faith, discipline, and determination of the players who embraced the system and their eagerness to learn,” Almadro said.
Lee credited Strong Group Athletics for supporting Benilde and Letran.
“A lot of programs in the NCAA are not as well supported as those in the other league (UAAP). Some teams only have scholarships to offer. We know that to maintain a proper program, dorms, proper meals, and even some allowances are needed because college expenses are high," Lee said.
In preparation for the NCAA, Lady Blazers Gayle Pascual, Jessa Dorog, Clo Mondoñedo, Zam Nolasco, Jade Gentapa and Camill Avila played for the Farm Fresh team in the Premier Volleyball League.
They also had stints at the V-League Collegiate Challenge, Shakey’s Super League and the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Challenge Cup.
“Strong Group’s support in our campaign this year is one of the best things that has happened to the volleyball program of Letran since we last qualified for the Final Four,” Almadro said. “They have also been instrumental in my return to Letran.” PNA
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