Denesse Daylisan showcased her skills and potential during her debut for National University Nazareth School in the UAAP Season 86 Girls’ Volleyball Tournament, despite being new to the bright lights and the fast-paced atmosphere of the metro.
However, the young talent from Davao was undeterred, quickly establishing herself as a key player in the starting six, even ahead of some of her more senior teammates.
Her performance helped the Lady Bullpups string together some crucial wins, but NUNS ultimately fell short in their bid for the championship, losing to a determined Adamson University side.
That setback, however, became a source of motivation for Daylisan. It spurred her to evolve from a rookie to a trusted member of the team’s rotation in the following season.
And after a season of hard work, Daylisan and the Lady Bullpups were able to reclaim the championship.
“Napakalaking bagay po nitong championship kasi last year po sobrang down kami eh. Last season, naghirap po kami at lumusot kami sa napakaliit na butas, pero hindi pa rin pinalad. Malaking bagay kasi sa ‘min ‘yung redemption; ‘yung eagerness namin nando’on,” said the Matina Central Elementary School product.
“May promise po kami sa seniors namin na ibabalik po namin ‘yung korona sa Jhocson.”
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Daylisan knew she had to find that second gear to fulfill her promise and help the team reach their ultimate goal.
“Yung ngayon po is kailangan ko pong mag-mature kasi isa rin po ako sa seniors. Kailangan ko pong mag-step up; hindi po pwedeng ako ‘yung nada-down kasi ako po ‘yung isa sa pinagkakatiwalaan sa court,” said the graduating outside hitter.
“Kailangan ko pong umangat at tulungan ‘yung mga kasamahan ko po.”
This rapid growth not only helped Daylisan mature but also contributed to the school’s seventh championship in the division.
With their legacy solidified, head coach Karl Dimaculangan had only kind words for Daylisan and the other five graduating seniors.
“Wish ko lang sa kanila is mag-stay siyempre and mag-excel sila pagdating ng college,” Dimaculangan concluded.
