University of Perpetual Help System DALTA high flyer, Louie Ramirez, had one wish for his birthday – to bring home the championship in the NCAA Season 98 Men’s Volleyball finals.
And that is exactly what he got on Sunday, as he led his team to a three-peat championship against San Beda University.
Ramirez, standing tall at 6-foot-3, exploded with a game-high 26 points, including 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. He also made 21 excellent receptions and 13 digs, helping his team fend off San Beda in four sets, 25-21, 25-20, 22-25, 25-22.
The Altas ace shared his elation after achieving his birthday wish, recalling their five-set loss against San Beda last Friday.
He said, “Sobrang saya po kasi kahit pa-paano — ‘yun nga po di namin nakuha ‘yung gusto ko mangyari nung birthday ko, then sinabi ko na lang sa isip ko na, siguro hindi ngayon ‘yung araw, siguro sa Sunday talaga.”
Ramirez also expressed his disappointment to his teammates after their loss last Friday, telling them how badly he wanted to win. But on Sunday, he showed the determination and will to win, helping Perpetual take home the championship title.
Despite suffering from cramps during the third set, Ramirez’s resilience inspired his teammates to keep fighting. In the end, they were able to overcome San Beda, thanks to Ramirez’s outstanding performance and JC Enarciso’s excellent sets.
Aside from the championship three-peat, Ramirez also obtained two personal championship titles, one in beach volleyball last January and then in indoor volleyball. He was also crowned Season 98 MVP and Finals MVP.
Ramirez credits his success to his coaches and teammates, especially to head coach Sammy Acaylar, who has been his mentor since his rookie year in Perpetual and also in the Spikers’ Turf.
(C) Dennis Abrina
“Sobrang proud po ako na naging coach ko si Coach Sammy po,” he said.
As Ramirez celebrates his birthday, he can proudly say that he received the best gift he could ask for – a championship three-peat. His dedication and hard work have undoubtedly paid off, inspiring his teammates and bringing pride to his school.
