UAAP: Jaz Ellarina eases into role as FEU’s main middle blocker

Middle blocker Jaz Ellarina has big shoes to fill for Far Eastern University in UAAP Season 88 women's volleyball.

With Jean Asis already in the pro ranks, Ellarina now serves as the biggest line of defense at the frontcourt, and she does not take this responsibility lightly. This is especially important since she had also looked up to her former teammate in the early days of her career.

After helping the Lady Tamaraws claim their first win against University of the East, 25-20, 25-14, 25-14, after an opening game loss against La Salle, the 22-year-old opened up about working on what the team needs her to be.

“To be honest, hindi naging madali kasi si ate Jean, ate Jean na 'yan. Siya 'yong sinasabi kong nilu-look up to ko noong ginawa nila akong middle,” said Ellarina, who scored 11 points built on five attacks, five blocks and one service ace.

“So, naging mabigat din kasi ang dami kong lapses,” she continued.

[ALSO READ: FEU dispatches UE for share of early lead with next foe NU in UAAP men's volley]

Fortunately for Ellarina, her situation has been made easier by her teammates and coaches. Working through her shortcomings in recent years, she has been able to turn herself into a better player.

Jaz Ellarina reacts during FEU's match against UE in UAAP Season 88 women's volleyball. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports

 “Ngayon, ipinaliwanag sa'kin na, 'Hindi lang palo 'yong gagawin mo. Kailangan mo rin talagang mag-commit sa net, 'yong blocking.' Ang hirap lang kasi hindi mo siya magagawa overnight,” said Ellarina, who shone as the Player of the Game against the Lady Warriors.

“Kailangan, process talaga. Until now, nahihirapan ako pero willing to accept the pressure na maging leader and maging isa sa inaasahan nila.”

[RELATED STORY: Gerz Petallo wants FEU to push past its limits in UAAP Season 88]

All hands on deck

Despite her added responsibility, Ellarina won’t be alone in her endeavor.

Just as it unfolded in their three-set conquest of UE, the Lady Tams continue to work together under the tutelage of head coach Tina Salak.

Against the Lady Warriors, five FEU players produced at least seven points.

[ALSO READ: Khy Cepada embraces leadership role as UE leans on rookies in UAAP Season 88]

Ellarina and Faida Bakanke shared the honor of being the best scorers, with identical 11-point performances. Meanwhile, skipper Gerz Petallo had nine points.

Lovely Lopez and setter Tin Ubaldo added eight and seven points, respectively.

With the rest of the season still ahead of them, the Lady Tamaraws hope to draw similar well-balanced attacks to claim a breakthrough campaign.

FEU clashes with titleholder National U next at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City Saturday, Feb. 21.

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Luisa Morales is a sportswriter with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.

Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.