(Editor's note: Third of a series)
WITH the phenomenal rise in the popularity of volleyball comes a new wave of emerging players whose enormous potential earned them the label ‘next big thing.’
One notable standout who may just live up to the billing is ace Cebuana winger Casiey Dongallo.
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At 18 years old, Dongallo’s potential as an elite volleyball star in the making has already been proven and solidified in the juniors ranks.
In just the 2022-23 season alone, Dongallo & Co. ruled the PNVF Champions League with California Precision Sports-Antipolo City against formidable pro league opposition after toppling PVL champion side Petro Gazz Angels in a sensational five-set fightback for the gold.
Just recently, the California Academy Under-18 squad toppled Naga College Foundation in the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League to add even more silverware for Dongallo and her longtime juniors partner Jelaica Gajero.
And it is also worth noting that in both title romps, Dongallo bagged tournament MVP honors.
Shortly after winning the PNVF tilt, the lethal 5-foot-6 spiker bared the fuel to her fire of consistently performing at the highest level in a fiercely competitive local juniors volleyball scene — to be on par, or greater, with the pros.
“Hindi porket high school ako at pro sila ay hindi ko na kayang makipagsabayan sa kanila. So once I stepped on the court at binigay sa akin [ang bola], kailangan ko patayin,” Dongallo said at 16 years old back in 2021.
“Kailangan ko patunayan na kahit high school ako kaya ko pumuntos at makipaglaban sa kanila.”

In the same tiff, the Cebuana star captured the best outside hitter nod over the likes of then-F2 star and national team standout Kalei Mau in what has been a breakout tournament for the rising ace.
Under the ftutelage of champion mentor Jerry Yee, Dongallo has found a new home with the University of the East Lady Red Warriors to kickstart her collegiate career alongside juniors teammates Gajero, ace libero Grace Fernandez, and heralded setter Kizzie Madriaga.
READ: Casiey Dongallo leads California Academy aces joining UE in Season 86
Newly appointed UE WVT team manager Jared Lao shared his excitement with having such a talented young core to propel the program’s long-term championship project.
“Having [them] commit to our team is such a crucial part of our rebuilding process. We all know what they can bring to the table, and as a team, we are very excited to have them be part of our journey."
The road to Philppine volleyball glory, one that has long begun for the young Dongallo, will soon take its biggest leap yet when she sets forth in the UAAP next year.
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