USPF reaches semis in Wagas volleyball

CEBU, Philippines – Defending CESAFI women’s volleyball champion University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) proved to be irresistible as it terminated the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) in straight sets to breeze through the semifinal round of the 2nd Mayor Ritchie Wagas Volleyball Cup the other day at the D.M. Reynes Gymnasium in Compostela, Cebu.

The formidable USPF squad of coach Jordan Paca was pushed to the limit by the USJ-R in the first set, 28-26, before finishing off the Josenians in the succeeding frame, 22-18. The defeat dashed USJ-R’s hopes of barging into the next phase of the competition.

USPF’s triumph was courtesy of the exemplary performances of reigning Nestea Fit Beach Volley national champions Erika Camille Verano and Apple Saraum.

 “We’re glad that we are able to defeat USJ-R inspite of the fact that they have more exposure than us,” said Paca, referring to USJ-R’s latest stint in the Shakey’s V-League in Manila. “But this should not be a reason for us to be complacent in this year’s CESAFI season because all the teams are also undergoing rigid preparation,” he added.

USPF’s high school counterparts, however, were not as lucky as they fell prey to Team Froilan in straight sets, 25-20, 25-19.

The undefeated Southwestern University (SWU) belles of coach Joerem Yu, on the other hand, secured their fourth straight victory at the expense of Team Housing, 25-8, 25-6.

SWU’s latest conquest was spearheaded by skipper Danika Yolanda Gendrauli along with Elizabeth Emnace, Lorie May Layno, Raphril Aguilar, Luilyn Paciño, and rookie, Anna Bennova Sabanal.

Aside from medals and trophies, the champion will receive P15, 000, while the second and third placers will get P10, 000 and P5, 000, respectively.

The event is one of the highlights of Compostela’s annual fiesta celebration on July 24-25 in honor of its beloved patron Señor Santiago de Apostol. — Marigold P. Lebumfacil (THE FREEMAN)