Fresh from her trip to South Korea earlier this week, National University star Bella Belen rejoined Alas Pilipinas’ practice session yesterday in preparation for the upcoming FIVB Challenger Cup this Friday.
Belen and the rest of the Lady Bulldogs visited South Korea as their reward for winning the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball Tournament last May.
The reigning UAAP MVP’s return is a significant boost for the Nationals, who will be without Chery Tiggo aces Eya Laure and Jennifer Nierva, as confirmed by Alas Pilipinas head coach Jorge Souza de Brito.
Laure and Nierva were both instrumental in the Philippines’ historic bronze medal at the AVC Challenge Cup earlier this year. The two were not included in the 14-player lineup released by the FIVB.
With Nierva out, Dawn Macandili-Catindig is set to be the lone libero for the Nationals in the Challenger Cup.
They will face reigning AVC champion Vietnam in the knockout quarterfinal tomorrow at 6:30 PM.
Initially listed as a libero, Creamline star Jema Galanza returns to her original position as an outside hitter.
Meanwhile, Choco Mucho middle blocker Cherry Nunag will serve as the team’s second libero.
Belen’s NU teammate Alyssa Solomon is also sidelined for the Philippines as she continues to recover from a knee injury sustained during the UAAP season.
Completing the squad are team captain Jia De Guzman, Angel Canino, Thea Gagate, Fifi Sharma, Sisi Rondina, Faith Nisperos, Vanie Gandler, Julia Coronel, Dell Palomata, and Arah Panique.
