The Intals have turned winning UAAP championships for Ateneo a family tradition as Rex Intal and the rest of the Ateneo Blue Spikers won their school’s first Men’s Volleyball title.
Rex’s brother, former Ateneo star and current PBA Guard, JC Intal, is also a beloved figure in the Ateneo community being a part of the 2002 Blue Eagle championship squad, and leading Ateneo to a Finals appearance in 2006.
According to JC, he just couldn’t miss his brother’s biggest game as he took an early flight out of Palawan, cutting his All-Star break short, to support his brother.
“I was in Palawan yesterday. I just flew back early this morning to watch the game. I was supposed to be there up until Monday, pero sakto Game 2, and they won,” said JC.
The current Barako Bull star also believes that compared to his basketball title, Rex’s volleyball championship holds a special place in Ateneo’s storied collection of UAAP Championships.
“I was a rookie then (2002), and Ateneo has quite a few basketball championships. This is Ateneo’s first Men’s volleyball championship. It’s different, it’s awesome actually,” the 6’3 Guard said.