STRUGGLING University of the Philippines suffered yet another blow when doctors confirmed graduating libero Princess Gaiser will be out for the remainder of the UAAP women's volleyball season due to an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear on her left knee.
The UP defense especialist twisted her left knee while shifting positions anticipating a coverage off an attack by teammate Diana Carlos early in the first set of a match against National University on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
An MRI revealed the ACL tear and Gaiser is set to undergo surgery under Dr. Raul Canlas on Monday, according to a statement released by UP team manager Cecile Ronquillo.
Gaiser, who was crying when Canlas and UP physicians were checking on her on Sunday, took her sentiments to social media.
“I will do everything just to play this sport til I couldn’t literally stand anymore. It hurts me to think that I have left my UAAP volleyball career without meeting my expectations as a player,” she posted on her Instagram account.
"My career comprises of approximately 13 injuries, multiple heartaches, unending battle scars, unexplainable feelings, picture perfect memories....13 years of ball is life and it still drives me crazy! No regrets even with this surprising end! Now its time to close this door and open a new one. #UPFight #GitingxTapang #UPAllTheWay The fight is not yet over!! My teammates will complete my dreams!! I know we can put up a fight because theres nowehere to go but UP!!!!"
UP eventually lost the game to NU, 23-25, 17-25, 25-22, 25-18, 12-15, for its third consecutive defeat after an impressive 4-0 start to the season.