Eli Soyud was a UAAP champion during her time as a La Salle Lady Spiker. But she rode the bench for most of her two-year stay in Taft.
After Season 78, Soyud left the celebrated program and bet on herself, transferring to the fledgeling Adamson University.
Two years later, Soyud gave her former squad a taste of what they were missing, tallying 18 points to lead the Lady Falcons to their first win over La Salle since Season 70.
Soyud conceded that the win meant more to her since it restored her confidence and the coaches’ trust in her. Soyud had been stapled on the bench to start the season, only coming in during their last match, a loss to Ateneo.
“Sobrang saya kasi isa ako nakatulong sa team kalaban La Salle,” said the 22-year-old.
“Siguro masasabi ko na bumalik na ‘yung tiwala ko sa sarili ko at ‘yung tiwala ng coaches sa akin.”
Soyud did have a few notable interactions with her bestfriend and La Salle open hitter Des Cheng throughout the match.
“Siya nga ‘yung grabe mang-asar sa akin. Pero alam na namin na ganoon ‘yung mangyayare,” the 5-foot-10 spiker recalled.
For Adamson head coach Air Padda, she knew that Soyud had what it took to have these type of games.
“I think it was easy to underestimate her after her first few games. But I knew and she knows that she has so much to give the team. I never stopped believing in Eli,” said Padda, adding that she didn’t even talk to Eli about facing her former team.
“I didn’t mention it to her. But I trusted her. I always trusted her.”
