CEBU, Philippines - The teams that figured in this year’s finals of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) women’s volleyball met contrasting fates in the 14th University Games at the Central Philippines University (CPU) gym in Iloilo City.
Reigning CESAFI champion Southwestern University (SWU) was knocked out of the tournament while its runner-up University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) advanced into the quarterfinal round.
Despite their failure to duplicate their quarterfinal showing last year, SWU coach Joerem Yu is still satisfied with the performance of his wards as they were able to give their opponents a classic fight.
Flashing the heart of a champion, SWU both outlasted host CPU and Rizal Technological University (RTU) in a five-set thriller behind the efforts of Raphril Aguilar, Danika Gendrauli, Lorie May Layno, Danalie Baquiro and Elizabeth Emnace.
However, the SWU volleybelles fell prey to the formidable UAAP champion University of Sto. Tomas (UST) Tigresses in four sets, 25-23, 25-20, 17-25, 25-11.
Though they ended the classification round with a 2-1 win-loss record, SWU failed to advance as the points they earned were not enough to earn them slot to the final eight.
“We’re still happy even if we failed to advance because we’re in a very tough bracket and we give our resilient opponents a good fight. Nevertheless, it was a great exposure for my players facing the best teams from other regions,” said Yu.
The Jordan Paca-mentored USPF, on the other hand, marched forward after impressive wins over Holy Angels University of Bohol, 25-13, 25-11, 25-12 and Xavier University of Cagayan de Oro City, 25-13, 25-8, 25-17.
“The girls have learned a lot from their defeat in the CESAFI. They strived harder this time and are aiming for an inspiring finish in the tournament. So far, I’m satisfied with their performance and I’m hoping that they could sustain, if not, improve it,” said Paca.
USPF will face next Adamson University for a semifinal berth. – Marigold P. Lebumfacil (FREEMAN NEWS)