Yes, NU had Season MVP Bella Belen and Finals MVP Alyssa Solomon. But it took a total team effort from the Lady Bulldogs to reclaim the UAAP women's volleyball title in Season 86.
After its harsh reality check last season, National University has completed its mission of reclaiming the UAAP women's volleyball title.
However, the championship was not the sole objective for team captain Erin Pangilinan. She also aimed to foster a strong team culture within the Lady Bulldogs.
For the 5-foot-7 middle blocker, this culture meant a team that was not solely focused on its stars, Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.
[ALSO READ: For the culture: Erin Pangilinan takes challenge of building up NU as true UAAP contender]
And if there’s anything that this Season 86 has shown, it’s that the Lady Bulldogs are more than just the Bella-Alyssa tandem.
NU also had some big-time performances courtesy of Vange Alinsug, Shaira Jardio, Camilla Lamina, and Sheena Toring.
“Sobrang proud ako siyempre lalo na nga 'yung kay Vangie, kay Shaira, kay Lams kasi at the same time na alam nila na nandun si Bella and Aly,” Pangilinan told One Sports.
“Kahit na sabihin na nandiyan si Aly, nandyan si Bella, nandiyan pa rin sila, nagpapakitaan pa rin sila, nagpapa-galingan sila. So parang sobrang proud ako, kasi it's a healthy competition inside the team. Gusto din nila, sila din,” she added.
Pangilinan, who is no stranger to leading NU, admitted that this title meant a great deal to them after all their ups and downs this Season 86.
“Sobrang blessed ako na binigyan ako ng pagkakataon na ma-lead sila and at the same time na maging part ng team na ito,” said Pangilinan.
“Sobrang grabe 'yung pinagdaanan namin coming up to this championship. Sabi nga namin sa bawat isa na hindi kami mananalo individually, kailangan talaga sama-sama,” she added.
[ALSO READ: ‘Anong ‘di kayang mag-Finals?’ | Bella Belen proud of NU’s fightback to reclaim UAAP crown in Season 86]
It’s safe to say that all of NU’s sacrifices were worth it in bringing back the crown to Jhocson.