UST’s uncle-nephew duo Kris Roy Guzman and Anthony Arbasto are bridesmaids no more.
After four frustrating seasons of second place finishes, the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Spikers finally claimed the UAAP Men’s Beach Volleyball title, completing their sweep of Season 79 with a 21-16, 21-16 Game Two win over Far Eastern University’s Jude Garcia and Jeremiah Barrica at the Sands SM by the Bay.
Guzman and Arbasto did not lose a single a set en route tho their sweep, making quick work of the Tamaraws. The España spikers secured a 17-9 lead in the first frame then took an 18-10 advantage in the second frame.
In the past four years, UST had finished in second place (three straight Finals losses to National University then one to Ateneo last year). Involved in three of those losing seasons, Guzman desperately wanted to to bring the trophy back to his beloved alma mater.
“Sobrang saya ko kasi sobrang hirap maka-experience ng talo. Tatlong taon din kaming natatalo sa Finals.
“Ngayon pakiramdam ko nabawi ko lahat ng sakit na ‘yun. Ang gusto ko lang naman talaga is mag-champion para sa school ko, sa pamilya ko, at sa coaches namin,” an ecstatic Guzman said after he was named the season MVP.
The champion was sweeter for Guzman as he won it with his nephew, Arbasto.
“Kahit hindi ko naramdaman ‘yung mga talo ng tito ko dito, gusto ko talaga manalo para sa kanya,” Arbasto reflected.
“Siya kasi talaga ‘yung nagturo ng lahat ng alam ko sa beach volleyball ngayon. Kapag sa game, lagi lang din ako nakikinig sa kanya kapag may kailangan akong ayusin.”
UST last won the title in 2010 with stalwart Jayson Ramos leading the charge.
