JAZ Ellarina anchored Far Eastern University’s net defense with a block party, firing five kill blocks to power the Lady Tamaraws’ 25-20, 25-14, 25-14 sweep of University of the East on Wednesday.
READ: FEU barges into win column after venting ire on hapless UE
For the 22-year-old converted middle blocker, FEU’s breakthrough win was the product of hard work behind the scenes, particularly in addressing the void left by departed middle Jean Asis, the eventual No. 2 pick in the PVL Draft.
Ellarina, who accounted for five of FEU’s 13 total blocks, admitted that stepping into the role once held by a player she looked up to was far from an easy transition.
“To be honest po, hindi po siya naging madali kasi si ate Jean, ate Jean na ‘yan eh. Siya nga ‘yung sinasabi ko na nilo-look up ko nung ginawa nila akong middle,” the six-feet defender said.
“Naging mahirap din siya kasi ang dami kong lapses as a middle blocker. Before, gusto ko lang pumalo. Ngayon, pinaliwanag din nila sa’kin na hindi lang palo ‘yung gagawin ko. Kailangan ko rin talagang mag-commit sa net sa blocking.”
Tough transition
Ellarina said embracing her new responsibilities was a gradual process, one that required patience beyond a single offseason.
Even if years have already passed since her days as an opposite hitter at National University, shifting gears from offense to net defense continues to be a fulfilling one now that the limelight's heavily cast on her.
“Ang hirap lang kasi na parang hindi mo siya magagawa overnight, so kailangan process talaga siya. Hindi siya months,” she said.
“Until now, nahihirapan ako, pero willing to accept the pressure na maging leader and maging isa sa mga inaasahan nila sa block.”
With Ellarina stepping up alongside Alas Pilipinas ace Cla Loresco, Mitzi Panangin and Ann Asis, the Lady Tamaraws continue to bolster their frontline as they push toward a historic 30th title.
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