On any other collegiate team, May Luna would not only be a starter but an ace.
But since she plays for the De La Salle University Lady Spikers, Luna has to contend with one of the deepest rosters in the league.
It took a little over three years, but Luna finally got her chance to shine for La Salle. With the Lady Spikers’ offense turning stale in Game One of the UAAP Season 80 Women’s Volleyball Finals, Ramil De Jesus called on number 7 in white.
Luna delivered nine points off the bench, including four crucial spikes in the third set that sealed the win. The Davaoeña, who was named player of the game, relished the opportunity she received.
“Happy po kasi, promise ko talaga sa sarili ko na maglalaro ako,” shared the 19-year-old outside hitter. “Kailangan hindi ko [i-let down] si coach nam ‘Ay, pinagkatiwalaan kita tapos parang hindi mo gagawin.’
“Ayaw ko ‘yun na mawala, gusto ko na buo pa rin ang tiwala niya. Panghahawakan ko ‘yun.”
De Jesus praised Luna’s readiness, always prepared to lift her team through her scoring and unassailable fighting spirit.
“Si May naman every situation ready, sa practice naman ganoon din,” remarked the decorated strategist. “Buo naman ang tiwala ko sa kanya kasi sa practice naman, masipag naman and maganda ang performance niya every training. Kaya confident ako na pagpasok niya, magde-deliver.
“And then ayun, nag-work naman ‘yung pasok sa kanya.”
