National University is just one win away from redemption and reclaiming the crown it lost last year after defeating University of Santo Tomas in straight sets in Game 1 of the Finals, 25-23, 25-20, 25-20, on Saturday.
Lady Bulldogs middle blocker Sheena Toring is also on the verge of redemption from a personal battle.
Toring was unable to finish NU’s finals series against De La Salle University last season after sustaining an injury to her left knee in Game 1.
In the deciding fifth set against the Lady Spikers back then, Toring attempted to block Thea Gagate’s attack.
In doing so, she landed on Gagate’s foot and had to leave the game. La Salle eventually escaped with an 18-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 15-13 victory.
The 23-year-old middle hitter from Valencia, Bukidnon, did not play in Game 2 as she suffered a partial tear in her ACL.
In the end, the Lady Spikers to dethrone the Lady Bulldogs in another five-setter, 19-25, 23-25, 25-15, 25-17, 15-10.
(C) Joaqui Flores/UAAP Season 86 Media Team
“I’m thankful na meron akong coaches na magaling magpakundisyon sa katawan talaga. I’m really thankful for them,” said Toring.
“Of course, pag injury ka kasi, ano yan eh, sipag na yan eh. Kasi kapag masipag ka sa kundisyon palang, sa training, for sure, lalabas yung performance mo,” she added.
Toring excelled in Game 1, scoring 10 points in straight sets as she contributed with six attacks, three blocks, and one service ace.
This was a follow-up to her splendid performance in their do-or-die battle against Far Eastern University in the Final Four. There, she scored 13 points, including six blocks, on her 23rd birthday last Wednesday.
Now, she is aiming to help NU end the series swiftly in Game 2 on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“I’m happy naman kasi naging consistent na ako since yung semis. So I’m happy. Hoping na next game, sana last game na, kailangan namin tapusin talaga ito.”
Sheena Toring savors every moment of this season’s UAAP Women’s Volleyball Finals, cherishing the opportunity after last year’s injury setback. 🏐✨#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/G4bRS5fbSZ
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) May 11, 2024
