Therese Manalo has been a key player for Mapua University in the NCAA Season 98 women’s volleyball tournament.
The 21-year-old Pampanga native has been instrumental in leading her team to victory, and her most recent performance showed why she is a valuable asset to the team.
The Lady Cardinals went up against Jose Rizal University and emerged victorious with a 4-set win, breaking their streak of going down-the-wire in their previous games. Manalo was crucial in securing the win, as she led the team with a total of 21 points, built on 15 attacks, 5 service aces, and a block, to go along with 10 excellent digs.
Manalo’s leadership role in the team was also evident, as she motivated her teammates to keep their spirits up throughout the game.
“Minomotivate ko po yung bawat isa kasi nararamdaman ko po na may times na bumababa yung energy ganon.
“So andun po ako para sabihan sila na enjoyin lang natin yung game and bigay na natin lahat para hindi na rin po kami nagpapagod. Ayun yung sinasabi ko lagi na andito na din tayo bigay na natin lahat,” she said.
Playing two different positions for the Lady Cardinals, Manalo acknowledged that there are still areas of her game that need improvement.
“Syempre marami po given na dalawa din po pwesto ko ngayon e so yun yung kailangan kong i-improve pa, yung transition na anytime pwede akong ipasok sa open, anytime pwede ako ipasok sa middle,” she said.
“So yun po, kailangan maging flexible pa ko para mas makacontribute pa ko sa team ko, yun po.”
The Lady Cardinals have won three straight games, thanks in part to Manalo’s outstanding performances. She has proven time and again that she is a versatile player who can make a difference in any position she is placed in.
With her leadership and determination, the Mapua Lady Cardinals are poised to go far in this season’s volleyball tournament.
