ILOILO City – Once the health pandemic is over, Ilongga spiker Maria Megan Gumban will join the University of Santo Tomas (UST) girls’ volleyball team.
On Wednesday, Gumban confirmed to Panay News her commitment with the UST Junior Tigresses. The Pavia, Iloilo-native spiker is a solid pick up for the UST’s volleyball program as she stands 5-foot-7 at the age of 14. The incoming Grade 11 student had previously played for Pavia Pilot Elementary School (PPES) and Central Philippine University.
“[UST assistant coach] Paul Jan Doloiras was looking for a volleyball player with a good height, and I was recommended by my former trainor [Ervin Clyde Buenaventura] to him,” said Gumban.
“Being recruited by UST is a big opportunity for me. It is also overwhelming since I have never played in the Palarong Pambansa before since my age does not fit my grade level,” she added.
Gumban, who was the third placer in the 2019 Iloilo Private Schools Athletic Association’s beach volleyball, is looking forward to her transfer to UST. She also hopes to play for the school in college.
“I am very much excited about my transfer to UST. It is a big opportunity for me and the beginning of my journey in Manila,” she said. “I must admit that it will also be challenging but I am certain that I can fit myself into the team.”
Gedeon Dorillo – who mentored Gumban at PPES, believes that the Ilongga volleybelle will be a great addition to the UST Junior Tigresses with her positive attitude on and off the court.
“As her former coach, I am confident that she will make it big in UST,” Dorillo said. “She is a great player with a very positive attitude. She is also coachable and always following the instructions.”/PN
