By: Christian David Ruiz
National University Nazareth School is just one win away from reclaiming the UAAP Girls’ Volleyball crown for Jhocson.
However, Lady Bullpups libero Atasha Doroja remains wary of defending champions Adamson University.
“Hindi po kami pwedeng magpaka-kampante, magrelax-relax, lalo na sa training kasi alam po namin yung skills nila,” Doroja shared.
The Lady Bullpups and Lady Baby Falcons have cultivated an intense rivalry, meeting in the UAAP Girls’ Volleyball Finals for the fourth consecutive season.
This year, NUNS feels determined to avenge their heartbreaking Season 86 championship loss to Adamson.
Doroja is eager to seal the series in Game 2, but she remains mindful of Adamson’s competitive edge.
“Talented din po sila, and alam din po namin na willing din po sila manalo, so dapat ang i-mindset po namin is like kailangan mas gustuhin pa namin manalo,” she remarked.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The 16-year-old defensive specialist was a vital force in Game 1, anchoring NUNS’ floor defense with 13 excellent digs and six excellent receptions.
Her contributions were crucial in setting the tone for their opening victory.
“During trainings po, talagang pinapractice po namin connections tsaka yung kahit sa mga basics po, inaaral po talaga namin. Pero siyempre nakikinig din po kami sa coach namin, tapos mental preparation po during training and before the game po,” Doroja explained.
Despite the team’s strong start to the series, Doroja believes there is room for improvement in her performance. She remains focused on pushing herself further in the crucial second game.
“I am still looking more po sa sarili ko. Yes, I gave my best, pero you know I want to exceed pa,” she admitted.
