Historic was Jaja Santiago’s net defense as she was hailed as the 2021-22 V.League Division 1 women’s tournament Best Blocker for the first time in her international career.
The 6-foot-5 spiker out of Tanza, Cavite collected 103 blocks in 33 games played this season, a far leader.
Santiago was only the third player in the 28-year history of the league to reach triple digits in blocks in a single season.
“I would like to dedicate this award to my family, coaches, and teammates. This award is only possible with the support of everyone. Especially for my teammates, they always helped me in this,” said Santiago.
“Everyone has done a great job as a member of the team and has always inspired me.”
The 103 kill blocks she tallied also placed the Filipino import third all-time in most blocks in a single tournament with Sachiko Sugiyama (NEC) at the top with 106 in 27 games during the 2007-08 season.
Photo from Saitama
Erika Araki of Toray came in second with 104 blocks in 27 outings too during the 2012-13 season.
Foluke Akinradewo (Hisamitsu) and Hattaya Bamrungsuk (Toyota) were tied at second this tournament with just 81 apiece.
“I’m sure there are many great middle blockers besides me, but I’m happy to be able to get this award,” she expressed. “I think it is the result of my daily hard work and my strong determination to improve. This may be an individual award, but for me, it’s a team award. I didn’t expect anything other than the best for the team.
“This award will be a valuable stepping stone to many successes in my future career.”
Santiago was also the undisputed leader in blocking rate with 0.81 per set. Akinradewo and Bamrungsuk were far second at 0.72.
The growth of Santiago’s performance in the league was phenomenal.
Last season, she was only able to snag 32 blocks in 20 games, placing her 11th. Her blocking rate was not that high as well at 0.46 per set, good for just 16th.
Santiago also won the Fair Play award by having the most green cards with two, tied with Mami Yokota of Denso.
