The NU Lady Bulldogs navigate the balance between academic responsibilities and their volleyball commitments as the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament unfolds.
It’s been a hectic past few weeks for the NU Lady Bulldogs.
Aside from competing in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament, some of their stars have also been busy with their academic load.
For one, middle blocker Sheena Toring had to miss one of the team’s games due to lack of sleep after defending her thesis.
[ALSO READ: Student first, athlete second: Sheena Toring makes strong return for NU after thesis defense]
Despite their heavy load in the semester, the Lady Bulldogs sit with a 3-1 record, tied with the DLSU Lady Spikers for second.
When asked how they plan to manage any further academic requirements during Season 86, NU star Bella Belen gave an answer that perfectly encapsulated her personality.
“Hindi nalang po kami papasok,” Belen jokingly said.
“Siguro pag in case na nagkaroon ulit kami ng ganun ka-load, siguro ngayon iooras namin. Iaayon namin sa oras ng pag may gagawin kami, kailangan hindi makaka-abala dun sa training and sa game namin kinabukasan. So, time management pa rin talaga,” she emphasized.
Vange Alinsug, who finished with 15 points on 13 attacks, one block, and one ace in NU’s straight-sets win over the UP Fighting Maroons, likewise pointed out proper time management when handling training and classes.
“Morning kasi 'yung training namin hanggang 12 (p.m.), so 'yung hapon naman namin, may time kami for school and hindi naman din talaga maiiwasan 'yung pagod,” said Alinsud. “Kailangan lang din 'yung time management talaga. Nasa sa amin na din 'yun.”
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Vange Alinsug thriving in 'sophomore jump' as NU finds offensive 'triangle' in Season 86]
Indeed, it’s student first, athlete second for the Lady Bulldogs.
Come Wednesday, March 6, NU will look to extend their winning streak as they go up against the FEU Lady Tamaraws at the Mall of Asia Arena at 4:00 p.m.