La Salle’s ate kim gets accolade in farewell show

MANILA, Philippines - Immediately after championship point was secured, La Salle players swarmed graduating setter Kim Fajardo for a big, warm group embrace, ecstatic for their “Kaf-tain” who took a bow in the UAAP in triumphant fashion. 

The Lady Spikers had been very vocal about how they drew inspiration and motivation from Fajardo, who had famously stayed on one last time to provide leadership to the young holdovers with the departure of stars Mika Reyes and Ara Galang after last year’s victorious run.

“Super happy we’re able to give Ate Kim the best exit,” said Kim Kiana Dy after La Salle dismantled rival Ateneo in five thrilling sets to repeat as champs.

“This finals, pinakita namin ang talagang game ng La Salle and for Ate Kim din kaya kami naglaro nang maayos (We showed the real La Salle during the finals and we were motivated to play well because of Fajardo),” said Season MVP Majoy Baron.

The Lady Spikers gave Fajardo the traditional Archer pose and even a victory ride usually reserved for a coach as salute for a stellar UAAP career laced with two Best Setter awards and one Best Server plum.

“Worth it ang lahat ng nangyari (It was all worth it),” said Fajardo, a three-time UAAP champion and two-time runner-up. 

“Sobrang sarap, hindi ko ma-explain. Sobrang saya kasi nga di ko naramdaman na ako ang pinakamatanda sa amin, na ako lang mag-isa ang lumalaban. Never nila pinaramdam sa akin yun (It’s an overwhelming feeling of joy. My teammates made me feel secure, that we were one in fighting for a common goal),” said Fajardo.

The pride of Calatagan, Batangas dished 43 excellent sets and scored four aces in a six-point production to help DLSU close out the series against Ateneo for the school’s 10th overall title.

It’s a bitter-sweet feeling for coach Ramil de Jesus, though, as he faces the task of plugging the void left by Fajardo.

“Mahirap yun. Iisa lang yan eh. Iisa ang Kim Fajardo (It’s a tall order. There’s only one Kim Fajardo and she’s irreplaceable,” said the multi-titled mentor.