Casiey Dongallo’s first year with the University of the Philippines came to an abrupt end after just five games.
The 5-foot-9 outside spiker will miss the remainder of the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament after tearing the ACL and meniscus in her left knee.
Dongallo sustained the injury on Sunday, March 8, during the first set of the Fighting Maroons’ 13-25, 21-25, 16-25 loss to the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws.
After pushing a far-set ball to the other side of the net, the Catmon, Cebu native landed awkwardly and had to return to the dugout before later coming back to the bench with her left leg elevated on a chair.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“She’s in a great mood. I’m surprised she never felt the desperation. She came to the (next) game, she comes to our training, still smiling,” said UP head coach Fabio Menta on Dongallo.
“Now, we want to be optimistic. By late December or January next year, she’ll be training again. Hopefully,” added the first-year tactician on when they expect Dongallo to return.
UP will now rely on Jelai Gajero, Joan Monares, and Irah Jaboneta to handle the open hitter position in Dongallo’s absence.
The Fighting Maroons currently hold a 3-3 record in the standings and will face the Adamson Lady Falcons on Sunday to close out the first round.
“Casiey’s a big loss, but the girls understand they need to do more now to compensate. The girls are okay. They’re working and hopefully, we find the right adjustments. We are preparing hard to do our best,” said the Italian coach.
