Let the games begin!  

The very first v-league game for the year is a battle between the blue birds. The Adamson lady Falcons taking on the Ateneo lady Eagles.

The girls from San Marcelino with guest player Nene Bautista dealt the ladies from Katipunan their first defeat for the year with a 3-setter. Although the Ateneo-Oracare girls had their Thai import Sontaya Keawbundit leading the team with 12 points, it wasn’t enough to stop the opposing team. Bautista was strongly supported by fellow import alumna Janet Serafica, and regulars Angela Benting, Sang Laguilles, Jill Gustillo and Pau Soriano.  

Although eventually foiled, Sontaya’s debut to the league had strong support coming from alumna Charo Soriano, Fille Cainglet, Gretchen Ho, Kara Acevedo, Bea Pascual, Dzi Gervacio and the other lady eagles fielded by coach Micmic Laborte for that night.

AdU vs ADMU  -  (25-20, 25-19, 25-18)

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It was just a typical Sunday for most folks. But for those who belong to the growing cult following our local volleyball scene, its one of those red-letter days.

The date is April 19 and its the opening of the Shakey’s V-League for this year.

The games were scheduled to begin at 2pm with the ceremonial rites commencing an hour before that. I manage to arrive at the Arena before noon but was surprised to see a considerable number of people in queue for tickets and already lining up towards the entrance.

The opening celebration was covered by the very able Sev Sarmenta. And the lineup of distinguished visitors for the inaugurals included US ambassador Kristie Kenney, San Juan Mayor JV Ejercito, IFFS (Shakey’s) president Leo Prieto Jr., Sports Vision president Ricky Palou, POC head Jose Cojuangco Jr. and Ms. Guia Gomez.

In between the parade of teams, oath of sportsmanship and various lively numbers rendered by the dancers, the Cardona Rizal Musical Ensemble and UP PEP squad; there was a minute of silent prayer dedicated to honor the late Leo Prieto Sr., founding commissioner of the PBA and mainly responsible for the event’s major sponsor — Shakey’s.

To the satisfaction of enthusiasts and fans, all of the 8 participating teams in the eliminations were present during the ceremonies. During the oath of sportsmanship each team was represented by their respective captains : 

• Angela Benting for Adamson
• Kara Acevedo for Ateneo
• Maureen Penetrante for St. Benilde
• Rachel Ann Daquis for FEU
• Syvie Artates for Lyceum
• Rysabelle Devanadera for SSC
• Cathy Barcelon for UP
• and Aiza Maizo for UST

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