Milena Alessandrini’s determination and fighting spirit helped University of Santo Tomas to a thrilling upset win against National University in a UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball match on Saturday.
Despite suffering an injury scare, Alessandrini returned to the court and played a pivotal role in securing the victory.
The match was level at six in the fourth set when Alessandrini went down on the Taraflex, causing her to break down in tears.
“I was very scared when I went down. I thought, in my mind, it was something serious again,” shared the 25-year-old blocker, who had to go through two ACL operations before coming back to UST this season.
“How can I survive again to face another injury?”
Despite her fears, Alessandrini prayed and relied on the support of her coaches to treat her ankle and help her recover. She knew that her team needed her and was determined to contribute in any way she could.
In the end, UST prevailed in a fifth-set thriller, with Alessandrini, skipper Eya Laure, and rookie Regina Jurado taking control and leading the team to victory. Alessandrini even provided some crucial points, including a drop that extended the lead to five, 13-8.
For Alessandrini, the win was a testament to her fighting spirit and determination. As the UAAP Season 80 Rookie of the Year, she had come back to close out the job and help her team succeed.
“I don’t know right now, I can’t feel anything. I don’t know later. But right now, I’m just happy,” the 6-foot-1 senior said, reflecting on the hard-fought victory.
Looking ahead, UST will face another tough opponent in Adamson University on Wednesday. Hopefully, Alessandrini will be back in full health and ready to help her team continue their winning ways.
But head coach Kungfu Reyes is confident that one of her leaders will once again rise to the occasion – just like what she has always done throughout her stay at UST.
“So ngayon pinakita niya na you have a Filipino blood.
“After a struggle, what’s important is how you come back. It’s not how you fall down. It’s how you come back that’s that important thing, especially in the fifth set,” said the Army personnel about his Filipino-Italian student-athlete.
Milena Alessandrini’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, perseverance, and determination in the face of adversity.
