Sheena Toring completed her journey of redemption by finishing the season injury-free and aiding National University in securing the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball Tournament championship on Wednesday.
Last year, Toring faced adversity after injuring her left knee in Game 1 of the Season 85 Finals series against De La Salle University. Adding to the pain, the Lady Bulldogs failed to retain their title, succumbing to the Lady Spikers in a sweep.
This time, the 23-year-old middle blocker successfully completed the season without injury. Furthermore, the Lady Bulldogs reclaimed the crown for Jhocson, defeating the University of Sto. Tomas in two games to capture their second championship in three seasons.
“Feeling ko ngayon is sobrang happy and parang satisfying siya kasi nung [Season] 84, actually, nagkaroon ako ng back injury dun after, and then last season din, nainjure ako sa tuhod,” said Toring during the post-game interview.
“Ngayon, thankfully Lord, binigyan ako ng lakas ng loob na wala akong injury. No injury. So I’m really happy na yung achievement na to is safe lahat, walang injury.”
(C) Joaqui Flores/UAAP Season 86 Media Team
Toring played a crucial role in the Finals series, contributing 10 points with six attacks, three blocks, and one ace in NU’s impressive Game 1 victory over UST last Saturday.
The Season 84 Best Middle Blocker then delivered another 10-point performance, including the title-clinching point that allowed the Lady Bulldogs to achieve a rare feat following the Bulldogs’ championship win over UST in the men’s division as well.
“For me, kahapon, nagmeeting kami sinabi lang namin na minindset namin ngayon na dapat all-out na lahat, kasi ito na yung last game,’ said Toring.
“Ayaw na namin umulit yung semis na matalo kami. Grabe yung trauma nun, so, nung una palang, medyo slow start ako. But thankfully nung third set, medyo bumabawi ako sa laro.”
