Arah Panique embraces bigger role for defending champion NU in UAAP Season 88

Now in her junior year, Arah Panique will finally have the spotlight to shine for the defending champion NU Lady Bulldogs in UAAP Season 88.

With Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon’s exit for the pros, Panique is set to take over as the Lady Bulldogs' primary opposite hitter.

Now with even with more eyes on her, the talented spiker is solely focused on helping the Jhocson-based squad defend its title.

"Sobrang excited kaming lahat na maglaro," Panique shared to One Sports.

"Lalo na kami na lang po yung natira. Gusto din po naming maipakita kung ano 'yung kaya namin kahit wala na 'yung seniors namin, na kaya din po naming lumaban hanggang sa dulo."

The added responsibility naturally comes with pressure, especially for an NU team entering this year as winner of three of the last four UAAP titles.

There's also an extra layer of pressure to perform for Panique, following her inspired stint with Alas Pilipinas Women.

[ALSO READ: Arah Panique out to make bigger UAAP impact for NU Lady Bulldogs after Alas Pilipinas stint]

Still, the 21-year-old believes it’s something she and the Lady Bulldogs are prepared to handle together.

"Hindi naman mawawala 'yung pressure," she admitted. "Pero makakaya at makakaya po na malampasan lahat ng pressure. Basta tiwala lang po talaga kami sa sarili namin."

Asked if she feels extra motivation heading into the season, Panique acknowledged the renewed drive, but stressed that she’s keeping her focus simple.

"May gano'n po sa sarili ko," she said. "Pero hindi ko naman masyadong iniintindi. Focus lang po ako sa laro ko at kung ano 'yung makakaya kong ibigay."

As NU transitions into life after its former stars, Panique’s emergence will be closely watched as one of the faces tasked with leading the Lady Bulldogs into their next chapter in UAAP Season 88.

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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.

Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.