MANILA – With the impending return of Kat Tolentino, Jhoanna Maraguinot and Jamie Lavitoria, Ateneo Lady Eagles now have the tools for a back-to-back championship in the UAAP women’s volleyball.
The Filipina-Canadian Tolentino decided to play out her final year of eligibility with the Lady Eagles. She previously announced she was leaving the school after leading it to UAAP Season 81 coronation.
“As much as I enjoy playing in the PVL, playing in the UAAP is a different experience,” said Tolentino. “There is something so unique about the competitiveness of the UAAP that I feel is hard to recreate.”
The rivalry between schools, she added, is not just about playing for pride but for something bigger.
“It’s also about playing for your teammates and for all those who’ve supported you,” she stressed.
Tolentino is excited with her Lady Eagles return and team up with rookie sensation Faith Nisperos, mainstays Ponggay Gaston, Deanna Wong, Jules Samonte, Dani Ravena, Vanie Gandler, and Jaja Maraguinot.
“I’ve been following the current Ateneo team especially during the PVL collegiate conference and I am proud to see how strong they are already,” Tolentino said. “I look forward to being back with them and contribute in any way I can.”
Just like Tolentino, Jhoanna and Lavitoria are also set to return this season after skipping the Lady Eagles’ Season 81 campaign to play in commercial volleyball leagues./PN
