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In the landscape of Philippine sports, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has long been a breeding ground for athletic talent and intense competition. While basketball traditionally dominated the spotlight, the past decade has witnessed a seismic shift as women’s volleyball surged to the forefront, capturing the hearts of millions. Central to this phenomenon were the electrifying rivalries that unfolded on the volleyball court, rivalries that not only elevated the sport but also united and divided a nation in the best possible ways. These epic battles between powerhouse universities marked a golden era for UAAP volleyball, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to inspire players and fans alike.
Teams: Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles vs. De La Salle University Lady Spikers
Era: 2011-2016
Key Players: Alyssa Valdez (ADMU), Jia Morado (ADMU), Ara Galang (DLSU), Mika Reyes (DLSU)
The rivalry between Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and De La Salle University (DLSU) is arguably the most storied in UAAP history. This rivalry transcends sports, rooted in the longstanding competition between the two prestigious universities. However, it was on the volleyball court that this rivalry reached its zenith, captivating a nation and drawing record-breaking crowds both in arenas and on television.
The peak of the Ateneo-La Salle rivalry occurred from 2011 to 2016, a period marked by intense battles for supremacy. The rivalry was ignited by the emergence of Alyssa Valdez, a powerhouse for Ateneo, whose explosive play and leadership led the Lady Eagles to multiple finals appearances. On the other side of the net, La Salle, under the guidance of coach Ramil de Jesus, was a volleyball juggernaut, known for its disciplined defense and tactical brilliance, led by players like Ara Galang and Mika Reyes.
The 2014 and 2015 UAAP Finals, in particular, stand out as defining moments of this rivalry. In 2014, Ateneo, underdog in the matchup, completed an improbable run, defeating La Salle in a dramatic five-set match to win their first-ever UAAP volleyball title. The following year, Ateneo solidified their dominance by sweeping La Salle in the finals, marking the end of an era where La Salle had been the unchallenged queens of UAAP volleyball.
This rivalry was not just about the matches but also about the cultural impact it had. It drew in a new generation of volleyball fans, who became deeply invested in the sport. The Ateneo-La Salle matches became must-watch events, creating a festive and intense atmosphere both in the venues and among the millions of fans following from home. The rivalry fueled the rise of volleyball as a major sport in the Philippines, making it an integral part of the country’s sporting culture.
Teams: National University Lady Bulldogs vs. Ateneo Lady Eagles / De La Salle Lady Spikers
Era: 2018-2022
Key Players: Jaja Santiago (NU), Risa Sato (NU), Bea de Leon (ADMU), Michelle Cobb (DLSU)
National University (NU) had long been considered a mid-tier team in UAAP volleyball, overshadowed by the dominance of Ateneo and La Salle. However, the arrival of Jaja Santiago, a 6’5″ middle blocker with unparalleled skills, marked the beginning of a new era for the NU Lady Bulldogs. Santiago’s presence on the court was a game-changer, and under her leadership, NU began to challenge the established order.
The 2018 season was a turning point for NU. With Santiago leading the charge, the Lady Bulldogs finished the elimination round as the top seed, a historic achievement for the program. Although they fell short in the semifinals, NU had announced its arrival as a serious contender, shaking up the traditional Ateneo-La Salle duopoly.
The 2022 season saw NU finally realize its potential, as the Lady Bulldogs went undefeated throughout the tournament, a rare feat in UAAP history. With a new generation of stars like Mhicaela Belen and Alyssa Solomon, NU swept the competition, including a dominant performance in the finals against La Salle. This victory not only broke the dominance of Ateneo and La Salle but also marked the beginning of a new era in UAAP volleyball, where more teams could aspire to the championship.
NU’s rise added a new dimension to the UAAP volleyball landscape, challenging the notion that only Ateneo and La Salle could dominate the sport. It also highlighted the growing competitiveness of the league, where teams from different schools could build programs capable of toppling the traditional powerhouses. The Lady Bulldogs’ success has inspired other universities to invest in their volleyball programs, contributing to the overall growth and development of the sport.
Teams: University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses vs. Ateneo Lady Eagles / De La Salle Lady Spikers
Era: 2019-2020
Key Players: Sisi Rondina (UST), Eya Laure (UST), Kat Tolentino (ADMU), Tin Tiamzon (DLSU)
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has one of the richest histories in UAAP volleyball, with a legacy of excellence that dates back decades. The UST Golden Tigresses have consistently been a formidable force, known for producing some of the most talented and passionate players in the league. The resurgence of UST volleyball in the late 2010s, led by dynamic players like Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure, reignited the school’s storied legacy and added new chapters to UAAP volleyball’s golden era.
The 2019 season was particularly memorable for UST, as the Golden Tigresses returned to the finals for the first time in several years. The team’s journey to the championship round was fueled by the incredible performances of Rondina, whose powerful spikes and fiery leadership galvanized her team and captivated fans. UST’s run to the finals brought back memories of the school’s dominance in the past and rekindled the passion of the UST community.
In the finals, UST faced Ateneo, setting the stage for an epic showdown between two of the league’s most popular teams. Despite falling short in the series, UST’s performance was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. Rondina’s departure from the collegiate scene left a lasting impact, as she passed the torch to rising star Eya Laure, who has since become the face of UST volleyball.
UST’s legacy of excellence, combined with the passion of its players and fans, continues to be a driving force in UAAP volleyball. The Golden Tigresses remain a perennial contender, and their matches against Ateneo and La Salle are always highly anticipated events. UST’s ability to consistently produce top-tier talent ensures that the school will continue to play a central role in the future of UAAP volleyball.
Teams: Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws vs. De La Salle Lady Spikers / UST Golden Tigresses
Era: 2017-2018
Key Players: Bernadeth Pons (FEU), Celine Domingo (FEU), Kianna Dy (DLSU), Milena Alessandrini (UST)
Far Eastern University (FEU) has a proud volleyball tradition, with a history of success that dates back to the early years of the UAAP. While the Lady Tamaraws may not have dominated in recent years to the same extent as Ateneo and La Salle, they have often played the role of dark horses, capable of pulling off upsets and making deep runs in the tournament.
The 2018 season was one such year for FEU, as the Lady Tamaraws, led by the versatile Bernadeth Pons, made a surprise run to the finals. Pons, known for her all-around game and leadership, was the driving force behind FEU’s resurgence. The team’s journey to the finals included thrilling victories over higher-seeded teams, showcasing their grit and determination.
In the finals, FEU faced La Salle, a team with a wealth of experience and championship pedigree. Despite a valiant effort, the Lady Tamaraws fell short, but their performance that season earned them widespread respect and admiration. FEU’s ability to challenge the established powerhouses added to the intrigue and unpredictability of the UAAP, making them a team that could never be counted out.
FEU’s role as dark horses in UAAP volleyball has made them a fan favorite, particularly among those who love an underdog story. The Lady Tamaraws’ tenacity and ability to compete with the best in the league ensure that they remain a threat in every tournament. As they continue to build on their storied tradition, FEU is poised to create more memorable moments in UAAP volleyball.
The rivalries that defined UAAP volleyball’s golden era were more than just a series of matches; they were cultural events that united and captivated the nation. The intensity of the competition, the emergence of star players, and the passion of the fans all contributed to the sport’s rise in popularity. These rivalries elevated volleyball to a new level in the Philippines, transforming it into a major sport that rivals even basketball in terms of fan engagement and media coverage.
The impact of these rivalries extends beyond the court. They have inspired a new generation of volleyball players, who look up to the stars of the golden era as role models. The success and popularity of UAAP volleyball have also led to increased investment in the sport, from grassroots programs to professional leagues, ensuring that the future of Philippine volleyball is bright.
As UAAP volleyball continues to evolve, the legacy of this golden era will endure. The rivalries, the players, and the unforgettable moments they created will be remembered as a defining period in the history of Philippine sports. These rivalries have set the standard for excellence in volleyball and have left a lasting mark on the hearts of fans across the nation.
The golden era of UAAP volleyball, marked by intense rivalries and unforgettable matches, will be remembered as one of the most exciting and transformative periods in Philippine sports. The rivalries between Ateneo, La Salle, UST, NU, and FEU captivated a nation, elevating volleyball to unprecedented heights and creating a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence the sport today.
As new rivalries emerge and the sport continues to grow, the impact of this golden era will continue to be felt, serving as a reminder of the power of sports to unite, inspire, and captivate. The stories of the players and teams that defined this era will live on, celebrated by fans and passed down to future generations as the standard of excellence in Philippine volleyball.
