Shakey's V-League

The 10th season of the Shakey's V-League culminated today with National University edging out Ateneo in four closely contested sets. I was rooting for the Ateneo Blue Eagles, maybe because I wanted them to end the season on a high note after their heartache against La Salle in the UAAP women's volleyball tournament. Unfortunately, they were unable to go for the three-peat in the Shakey's V-League. NU have become a very formidable team with so many attacking options that include the Santiago sisters. Dindin stands at 6'2" and her younger, 17-year old sister Jaja is even taller at 6'4" so their presence at net is just so ominous. Nevertheless, Ateneo did put up a valiant fight and even led 24-22 in the fourth set before NU shifted gears. Still it was a good season for both finalists.

I'm also happy that UST placed third. Aiza Maizo from UST has always been one of my favorite players and while she was unable to play in today's battle for third, it was great to see her play again for UST during the season. I do understand though that she didn't really play in the last 2 years so obviously her current form isn't exactly what it was when she was the Shakey's V-League MVP a few years ago. Nevertheless, it was still watch her incredible skills on court and I'm pleased that she helped UST to a third place finish.

Collegiate volleyball, or more specifically women's collegiate volleyball, has now become extremely popular in the Philippines. This sport has been gaining popularity over the last few years and now, marquee matches can now easily fill large venues like MOA Arena and Araneta Coliseum. The UAAP Season 75 Women's Volleyball wrapped up a few months ago and to keep the momentum going, the Shakey's V-League kicked off almost immediately. The DLSU Lady Spikers didn't participate in the V-League - I guess their trimester set-up means they have classes while everyone else is on summer vacation - but the rest of the top five UAAP teams were there: Ateneo, Adamson, NU, and UST. The interesting thing about the V-League is that it pits the UAAP teams against other schools like University of Perpetual Help, Arellano, and San Sebastian College.

Interestingly enough, the UAAP teams dominated the V-league. NU was arguably last season's most improved team in the UAAP and their semifinal appearance there has clearly helped their confidence and experience here. 6'4" Jaja Santiago has been a tremendous addition to the NU squad and I wouldn't be surprised if they make it to the UAAP finals next year and win the championship. In any case, I am definitely looking forward to seeing more volleyball on TV and I eagerly anticipate future matches between DLSU and the new and improved NU.