BEEN there, done that.
Exactly five years ago, Sisi Rondina was in the same exact position as the finals-bound University of Santo Tomas women’s volleyball team in UAAP Season 81.
It felt surreal, sure, but that didn’t last long as Ateneo, led by her now-Choco Mucho teammate Maddie Madayag, proved too strong for the Tigresses in the finals.
Though Sisi was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) honor, she felt the pain of falling short of the crown that may have rewritten history for UST.
And now, chances are up and running again with super rookie Angge Poyos steering the wheel.
Poyos revealed in an old interview that Rondina was among her inspirations – one of the biggest reasons why she took her talent to the Espana-based squad.
Since they got introduced, the two have kept in touch.
READ Small-town girl Angge Poyos recalls life-changing call from Coach Kungfu
Poyos revealed she occasionally asked her ‘ate Sisi’ for tips and advice, which she generously give.
A few moments after UST’s feat, Choco Mucho also booked its PVL All-Filipino finals ticket.
Of course, Sisi was a proud alumnus, commending the girls, and the coaching staff during the post-game interview.
“Nakaka-proud yung mga bata, pinatunayan nila na hindi nadadaan sa pisikalan, puso at trabaho talaga,” she said.
Bisaya connection
And from a Cebuana to a Boholana, Sisi also had a few words of encouragement and playful banter for her co-Bisaya.
“Nakakainggit ka ha, congratulations,” said Sisi, addressing Poyos. “Go pa, two games na lang! Alam mong proud ako sa’yo pero what more kung makakakuha ka ng championship, if ever, first time tapos rookie pa!”
Hoping to contribute added motivation, Sisi continued: “Sana magtuloy-tuloy yung mga ginagawa niya, and patuloy magpasalamat sa mga taong nakasuporta sa kanila.”
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