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The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has long been a crucible for nurturing some of the best volleyball talent in the country. Over the years, the league has produced numerous stars who have not only dominated the collegiate scene but also made significant impacts in the professional ranks. The transition from college volleyball to professional play is both challenging and rewarding, requiring athletes to adapt to higher levels of competition while maintaining the skills and discipline that brought them success in the UAAP. This article chronicles the journey of some of the top UAAP volleyball stars as they transition from collegiate competition to the professional stage, highlighting their challenges, achievements, and influence on the sport.
College: Ateneo de Manila University
Professional Teams: Creamline Cool Smashers (PVL)
Position: Outside Hitter
Alyssa Valdez, often referred to as “The Phenom,” is one of the most iconic figures in Philippine volleyball. Her rise to stardom began at Ateneo de Manila University, where she led the Lady Eagles to multiple UAAP championships and became a three-time UAAP MVP. Valdez’s remarkable college career laid a strong foundation for her transition to the professional leagues, where she has continued to dominate.
After graduating from Ateneo, Valdez joined the Creamline Cool Smashers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). Her impact on the professional stage was immediate, as she quickly became one of the league’s top scorers and most influential players. Valdez’s leadership and scoring ability have helped Creamline secure multiple PVL championships, solidifying her status as a key player in the league.
Beyond her on-court success, Valdez has also become a cultural icon, using her platform to promote the sport and inspire young athletes across the country. Her journey from UAAP star to professional volleyball sensation is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for the game.
College: National University
Professional Teams: Saitama Ageo Medics (Japan V.League)
Position: Middle Blocker
Jaja Santiago, standing at 6’5″, was a dominant force during her time at National University (NU). Known for her height, power, and blocking ability, Santiago led the NU Lady Bulldogs to numerous victories and earned multiple individual awards, including UAAP Best Attacker and Best Blocker honors. Her towering presence and skill made her one of the most feared middle blockers in the UAAP.
Santiago’s journey to the professional ranks took her beyond the Philippines, as she signed with the Saitama Ageo Medics in Japan’s V.League. Competing in one of the world’s top volleyball leagues, Santiago has continued to excel, helping her team secure victories and earning the distinction of being the first Filipino to win a championship in Japan’s V.League.
Her success in Japan has not only raised her profile internationally but has also demonstrated the potential of Filipino athletes on the global stage. Santiago’s journey from the UAAP to international professional volleyball serves as an inspiration to many young Filipino athletes aspiring to compete at the highest levels.
College: Ateneo de Manila University
Professional Teams: Creamline Cool Smashers (PVL)
Position: Setter
Jia Morado’s exceptional playmaking ability and court vision made her one of the most talented setters in UAAP history. As the setter for the Ateneo Lady Eagles, Morado played a crucial role in orchestrating the team’s offense, leading them to multiple UAAP championships. Her precision in setting, combined with her calm demeanor under pressure, earned her several Best Setter awards during her collegiate career.
After her successful stint in the UAAP, Morado transitioned to the professional ranks, joining the Creamline Cool Smashers in the PVL. In the professional league, Morado has continued to shine, consistently ranking among the top setters in the league. Her ability to deliver accurate sets and make quick decisions has been instrumental in Creamline’s success, including their multiple PVL championships.
Morado’s journey from college standout to professional star has been marked by her unwavering commitment to excellence. She remains a key figure in the volleyball community, both as a player and as a role model for aspiring setters.
College: University of Santo Tomas
Professional Teams: Choco Mucho Flying Titans (PVL), Foton Tornadoes (PSL)
Position: Outside Hitter
Sisi Rondina, known for her fiery spirit and explosive playing style, became a household name during her time with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses. Despite her relatively small stature for a volleyball player, Rondina’s athleticism, powerful spikes, and tenacity made her one of the most dominant players in the UAAP. Her leadership and passion for the game led UST to the UAAP finals in 2019, where she was named MVP.
Rondina’s transition to the professional leagues was seamless, as she brought the same intensity and skill to teams like the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and Foton Tornadoes. Her ability to score from any position on the court and her relentless energy have made her a valuable asset to any team she plays for.
Beyond her success on the court, Rondina’s journey is a story of perseverance and overcoming obstacles. Her rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of the top players in the country has inspired many young athletes, particularly those who may not fit the traditional mold of a volleyball player.
College: De La Salle University
Professional Teams: F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (PVL)
Position: Setter
Kim Fajardo was a key player for the De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers during her time in the UAAP, where she led her team to multiple championships. Known for her excellent setting skills, quick decision-making, and leadership on the court, Fajardo was the engine that powered La Salle’s formidable offense. Her performance earned her several Best Setter awards and solidified her reputation as one of the best setters in UAAP history.
After her college career, Fajardo joined the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers in the PVL, where she has continued to excel. Her ability to orchestrate the offense and deliver precise sets has been crucial to F2 Logistics’ success, including their championship victories in various tournaments.
Fajardo’s journey from the collegiate ranks to the professional leagues has been characterized by her consistency and leadership. She remains one of the top setters in the country and continues to inspire young players with her dedication to the sport.
College: University of Santo Tomas
Professional Teams: Still Active in College
Position: Outside Hitter
Eya Laure is one of the brightest young stars in Philippine volleyball, known for her powerful attacks, defensive skills, and leadership on the court. As a member of the UST Golden Tigresses, Laure has already made a significant impact in the UAAP, leading her team to the finals and earning individual accolades along the way.
While Laure is still active in college volleyball, her potential for success at the professional level is undeniable. Her versatility and all-around game make her a valuable player in any lineup, and her leadership qualities suggest that she will be a key figure in Philippine volleyball for years to come.
As Laure continues to develop her skills and gain experience, the volleyball community eagerly anticipates her transition to the professional ranks. Her journey from college star to professional player will be closely watched, as she is expected to be one of the future leaders of Philippine volleyball.
The journey from UAAP volleyball to the professional leagues is one that requires talent, hard work, and adaptability. The players highlighted in this article—Alyssa Valdez, Jaja Santiago, Jia Morado, Sisi Rondina, Kim Fajardo, and Eya Laure—have successfully navigated this transition, becoming some of the most influential and successful athletes in Philippine volleyball.
Their stories are a testament to the strength of the UAAP as a breeding ground for top-tier talent and the opportunities available in the professional ranks. As these athletes continue to excel in their careers, they serve as role models for aspiring volleyball players and as ambassadors for the sport, helping to elevate the status of Philippine volleyball on both the national and international stages. The journey from college to the pros is challenging, but for these stars, it has been a path to greatness, inspiring a new generation of volleyball enthusiasts across the country.
