USC, USJ-R in pursuit of history

CEBU - The University of San Carlos (USC) Spiking Warriors and the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) belles take one last hurdle in their pursuit for historic glory as they face separate foes in today’s championship matches of the 8th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) volleyball tournament this afternoon at the USC-Main gym.

The USC spikers of coach Norvie Labuga seek a grandslam feat but it would be a tough, meandering journey for them as they go up against the undefeated title favorite USJ-R of Cebu Sports Hall of Famer coach Grace Antigua in the men’s final.

Back in 2006, USJ-R was bidding for a three-peat but we’re denied by the Carolinians. Now it’s the chance of the Josenians to get even. They are now very eager to take back what they had lost before at the same venue.

As usual, USC will be spearheaded by two-time CESAFI MVP Roderick Arenasa, who will try to have a graceful exit serving his lasy playing year in the league. For them to succeed, Arenasa needs the support of the likes of Kennith Bensig, Bonvie Estrera, Jerone Maestre, Dexter Tuazon, Geroel Aragones and Harvey Bernil.

USJ-R, on the other hand, will squeeze the most of its star players in Jacky Yrog-irog, Leoniel Sanchez, Ken Abunda, and Louijie Tipgos.

As in their past games, defense is the most lethal weapon of USJ-R in its offensive arsenal, and USC must find an antidote to destroy it.

In the women’s finale, USJ-R will renew its scathing rivalry with the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) for the fourth straight year. Their showdown will surely be a tough one since USPF has vastly improved compared to its previous performances.

In fact, USJ-R had to pass through a five-set thriller before fending off USPF in the elimination round.

If there is one thing that is of USJ-R’s advantage, it will be no less than its big fighting heart that catapulted them to three successive titles.

Former RP Youth members Gennie Sabas and Michelle Simbajon will banner USJ-R’s campaign for a record four-peat. They will play alongside Cristy Aina Laroga, Joy Bonita, Rachel Hannah Singson, Sarah Miculob and Carla Garces

USPF of coach Jordan Paca, on the other hand, will be led by 2008 Nestea Beach Volley national finalists Ericka Camille Verano and Harlene Ybarita together with Apple Seraum, Lovena Amor Pepito, Jennylou Fern Villeges, Jovielyn Abil and Honeylyn Ybarita.

Before the championship games, Southwestern University (SWU) battles USC, while USPF takes on the University of the Visayas (UV) for third place in the women and men’s divisions, respectively.   (THE FREEMAN)