Vange Alinsug took center stage in National University’s championship victory over De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament, delivering a strong message to their graduating seniors: the team will be just fine moving forward.
The 5-foot-7 outside hitter from Catmon, Cebu spearheaded the Lady Bulldogs’ offense in their two-game sweep of the Lady Spikers, exploding for 21 points in Game 1 and contributing 10 more in the title-clinching win on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
For Alinsug, the goal was simple — reassure their seniors that NU’s winning tradition will continue. That message was delivered loud and clear, capped off by her earning Finals MVP honors alongside libero Shaira Jardio.
NU stalwarts and three-time MVP Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, Erin Pangilinan, and Sheena Toring wrapped up their collegiate careers in front of a roaring crowd of 18,514 fans at the bayside Pasay venue.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“I think yes po (it’s our time to shine na). Kasi, knowing na aalis na talaga sila, sana sa mga maiiwan is madala namin ito sa susunod na season,” said Alinsug, now emerging as the new leader of the Lady Bulldogs.
“Alam ko rin naman talaga na kahit wala na yung seniors namin sa first six, madaming mawawala, meron ding mas malakas pa na papalit and paghihirapan naman namin yun hanggang sa mag-season ulit,” she added.
Despite her breakout performance and the individual recognition, Alinsug remained humble, choosing to focus on the bigger picture.
Even with the Finals MVP honor under her belt, she’s already looking ahead to leading the team toward a potential three-peat — embracing both the responsibility and the growth it requires.
“For me naman, may award man ako o wala, still, kami pa rin yung magiging leader sa susunod kaya room for improvements lang talaga kasi mahaba haba pa talaga. Pero ngayon, ie-enjoy lang namin itong panalo with the senior citizens,” she said with a laugh.
With Alinsug, Jardio, and senior setter Camilla Lamina poised to lead the squad next season, NU remains in good hands.
The trio will be joined by their underclassmen Arah Panique, Chams Maaya, Alexa Mata, Celine Marsh, and Kaye Bombita — each ready to take on bigger roles as the team transitions into a new era.
