Unicorns, Hope favored in Ateneo Open 3

MANILA, Philippines - Unicorns, powered by standouts of two-time Shakey’s V-League champion Ateneo, is tipped to win the women’s crown as the much-awaited Ateneo Open 3 Tournament opens tomorrow at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Four of the Lady Eagles’ “Fab 5” – Dzi Gervacio, Gretchen Ho, Fille Cainglet and A Nacachi – will banner the Unicorns, who are seeking to bounce back from last year’s loss to Hope Alumni.

Chie Saet, the last edition’s MVP, won’t be around, but Lady Eagles setter Jem Ferrer will spearhead Hope’s bid to win a second straight championship in the event presented by Mizuno.

Former Ateneo stalwarts Charo Soriano, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello and La Salle stars Ivy Remulla and Anne Remulla are also in Unicorn’s roster.

Bernice Co, South Ramos, Pau Genido and Angelica Perez will also be vital cogs for Hope.

Bigger prizes await the champions in the women’s and men’s division of the three-day event. The first placer will receive P15,000 cash prize, while the second and third placers will go home with P9,000 and P6,000, respectively.