By: Czarina Agaton
National University-Nazareth School senior and team captain Harlyn Serneche has turned past disappointments into stepping stones, leading her team back to the finals of the UAAP High School Girls’ Volleyball Tournament.
After enduring a tough loss last season, Serneche and the Lady Bullpups focused on developing a resilient mindset, enabling them to overcome challenges, recover quickly, and emerge stronger both mentally and physically.
Their determination was on full display as the Lady Bullpups secured a hard-fought five-set victory over the FEU-D Baby Tamaraws, 25-28, 21-25, 21-25, 25-16, 18-16, clinching their spot in the championship round.
Serneche spearheaded NU’s attack with 18 points, including 14 kills and four blocks. She was ably supported by Diza Berayo, who tallied 19 points, highlighted by 17 kills and two service aces.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Para po sa akin, siguro hindi na po binigay sa amin ni Lord. Parang lesson na din po,” Serneche shared, reflecting on the lessons from their previous campaign. “Diba po nung nag-champion kami nung Season 85, lahat panalo namin? Nung finals lang po kami natalo.”
She went on, “So parang pinaramdam po sa amin ni Lord kung paano po matalo, kung paano po kami makakapag-execute ng mga pagkakamali namin.
“Nagsimula po kami sa training, at dapat po mas malakas po ang loob namin kapag nalalamangan o natatalo kami sa bawat set o laro. Dapat mas mabilis po kami makabangon.”
Heading into another finals series, Serneche feels motivated to apply those hard-earned lessons. Her goal is to reclaim the title by building confidence, embracing teamwork, and trusting the process.
“Pagpasok ko po dito [Filoil EcoOil Centre], normal lang po kasi tapos na rin naman po ang dating season. Bagong season na po ito. Dapat po panibagong title na po ito sa amin,” she expressed.
The Lady Bullpups now prepare for their finals showdown with a familiar rival, the Adamson Baby Falcons.
For Serneche, trust and preparation are key as the team aims to fulfill their championship aspirations.
“Kasi po nag-aadjust naman po kami sa training. Doon pa lang po makikita na ang dapat iimprove,” she explained. “Yun lang po ang pinapakita namin sa laro – yung adjustment po at mga sinasabi ng coaches. Wala naman po mawawala kung ita-try po namin ang best namin.”
With renewed focus and determination, Serneche and the Lady Bullpups are ready to fight for glory, bringing the lessons of the past and the promise of a bright future to the court.
