Despite some struggles as a team, last year’s women’s volleyball semifinalists University of the Philippines have seen steady performances from spiker Diana Carlos. The sophomore has been a paradigm of consistency in a seesaw season.
“Siyempre, unang-una, yung love ko sa sport,” the Pampanga-native shared when asked on what her motivation is.
“Gusto ko yung ginagawa ko.”
The versatile hitter also dedicates her games to her loved ones. “Yung family ko at yung teammates ko na laging nandyan, nagpapakahirap every training. Bakit hindi ibuhos every game?”
Nonetheless, the Sport Science does not dwell on being tagged as the team’s go-to-girl. “Tanggap ko, oo. Pero hindi ko masyadong iniisip,” she admitted. “Inaasahan ako, yes, pero tingin ko same lang naman kami lahat. Siyempre, mas mage-effort ako para makita na [kaya ko].”
Carlos’ consistency, however, was tested as the De La Salle University made her a target when the two squads met Sunday afternoon. And the second-year upstart admitted that she had had an off game against the defending champions.
“It was so bad,” she bluntly admitted.
“Ang daming nakuhang puntos from me [sa] service receive pa lang. It is one of my weaknesses, but I’m trying naman.”
The 18-year-old’s reception woes reflected the performance of the Diliman-based squad, in a mirror image of their first round encounter.
Still, there are four matches left in the eliminations for the Maroons, and Carlos believes they can still go for a final push to return to the post-season.
“Siyempre may goals tayo. As a team, Final Four muna. Kung makakapasok, why not fight for championship,” she said.
In order for that to happen, the usual starter says that on her part, “Magfo-focus ako sa service receive ko. Palo naman, ok naman na eh.”
Carlos vow sthat she and the rest of the team will do everything to still reach that goal.
“Lalaro kami, lalaban kami. Ibibigay namin lahat ng kaya namin, yun lang,” she furthered.
