After the post-game huddle of the National University Lady Bulldogs last Monday, rookie outfielder Cristy Arribas immediately headed out to the field of the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium looking for her sister Jamica.
Jamica, a fifth-year pitcher, and the De La Salle Lady Batters had just lost a heartbreaker to the Lady Bulldogs, 4-5. The older Arribas’ errant pitch had led to an eighth-inning walk-off for NU.
Cristy immediately consoled her sister.
As Jamica settled down, she gave her sister a tight hug. Finally, they are in the UAAP together.
“First time namin na hindi magkakampi. Ang saya. Proud nga ako sa kanya kasi naka-hit siya,” shared the 21-year-old, who was teammates with her sister during their days in Domingo Lacson High School in Bacolod.
“Sobrang saya ko na makita siya sa UAAP level.”
Cristy had a chance to go up against Jamica during the fifth inning of the game, as she relieved fellow rookie Mariss Juliao during the fifth inning. She was able to connect on a base hit.
All throughout the contest, Cristy had mixed emotions, cheering on both the Lady Bulldogs and Jamica.
“Habang pumapalo si ate nagchee-cheer ako,” she gushed.
If Jamica had her choice, she would have wanted Cristy to join her in La Salle. But fate would not allow it.
“Gusto ko sana na nasa isang school kami pero wala eh. Happy naman ako na isa sa UAAP schools ang kumuha sa kanya.”
Though Cristy’s team won round one, Jamica vows that the Lady Batters will give their all to at least even the Arribas series out.
“Babawi kami. Hindi ako papatalos sa kanya,” quipped Jamica.
“Papatalo ba yung ate sa bunso?”
On the other hand, Cristy asserted she would make sure to take a sweep.
“Siyempre, hindi kami papatalo. Tatalunin namin sila uli.”
