UNIVERSITY of Sto Tomas is looking to end a long run of futility against Ateneo, and Sisi Rondina is hoping to help deliver the big win on the final stretch of her college career.
The Tigresses last won over the Lady Eagles seven years ago, and both Rondina and coach Kungfu Reyes have a chance to do it on the big stage.
With star rookie Eya Laure providing a huge boost, the Tigresses made it to the finals, although twice in the eliminations they failed to stop the Lady Eagles.
“Sabihin na nila na hindi pa kami nanalo sa Ateneo, lalong lalo na ako,” Rondina said. “Pero andun pa rin yung kagustuhan naming manalo, ilalaban namin team namin.”
“Kayang-kaya nating mag-champion basta puso,” she added.
That UST team that last bat Ateneo featured Rhea Dimaculangan, Maika Ortiz and Maru Banaticla, defeating the squad bannered by Fille Cainglet, Dzi Gervacio, Jem Ferrer and rookie Alyssa Valdez in the second-round of eliminations in 2012. UST fell short of the semifinals, while Ateneo made it to the title series, bowing to La Salle.
“Five years di pa namin sila natatalo, I know there’s a reason behind that. Tibay ng loob na lang 'yan, test of character kung sino gusto manalo,” Rondina said.
Rondina said she is just happy to help UST return to the finals for the first time since 2011 and have a shot at delivering UST’s 17th women’s volleyball championship.
“First year pa lang parang ito na ang third family ko, ang (UST) community,” Rondina said. “Yun nga para lang to pay back kung ano ang ginagawa nila sa akin, is to bring the UST back to the finals. I know they’re happy but they’ll be the happiest if we win the championship.”
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