For the first time in the UAAP, the Season Most Valuable Player of the High School Boys’ Volleyball tournament came from University of Santo Tomas.
Opposite hitter Jancriz Ayco, who is in Grade 11, led the Junior Golden Spikers to a fourth-place finish this season, earning him the title of the top student-athlete in the tournament.
This recognition was presented before Game 2 of the Finals between National University Nazareth School and University of the East.
“Hindi ko po in-expect na makuha ko ‘to kasi marami pong magagaling na players,” said the Cadiz-born spiker, who played his first season in the league.
“Pero gagamitin ko po ito as motivation na galingan pa, i-improve ang skills, at gawin ang tama sa court,” he added.
Ayco also secured the title of Best Opposite Hitter, while teammates Paolo Medino and Sean Cruz received the Best Outside Hitter and Best Middle Blocker trophies, respectively.
Miguel Egger of NUNS was adjudged one of the Best Middle Blockers for the second straight season and will attempt to lead the Bullpups to a fifth UAAP title later in the day.
Far Eastern University-Diliman captain Rhodson Du-ot added the Best Setter award this season to his resume after winning the Finals MVP trophy in Season 85.
Adamson University’s future looks bright with Grade 10 defensive specialist John Ian Guevarra earning the title of Best Libero in a fantastic season for the Baby Falcons.