MANILA – Defending champion National University defeated Far Eastern University, 25-20, 27-25, 25-21, to secure the first finals spot in the Shakey’s Super League Unity Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Captain Vange Alinsug finished with 11 points (nine attacks and two blocks), five digs and five excellent receptions, while Celine Marsh added nine points in leading the undefeated Lady Bulldogs to the championship round for the fourth consecutive time.
Chams Maaya and Josline Salazar contributed eight points each for NU, which will face the winner between twice-to-beat University of Santo Tomas and Adamson University.
The Tigresses and Lady Falcons were still playing at posting time.
The best-of-three championship series will begin on November 8 at Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
“We cleaned up our moves and in the second set, that was a test of character for us. This game is very important for us to advance to the finals,” Marsh said.
“What we are told is that we should never use that twice-to-beat advantage because that is how the opponent will gain confidence when they use the twice-to-beat advantage. Our mindset is that we are all out whether we have the twice-to-beat advantage or not,” she added.
Ia David led the Lady Tamaraws with eight points, followed by Alyzza Devosora with seven points.
Meanwhile, Adamson standout Shaina Nitura was named the new SSL Ambassador, replacing NU alumna and Alas Pilipinas teammate Bella Belen.
Nitura is tasked with joining SSL campus tours, talking about the role of women in sports, and sharing her volleyball experience, among other responsibilities.
Ninoy Aquino Stadium
The Ninoy Aquino Stadium is a multi-purpose indoor arena in Manila, Philippines, originally built in 1960. It was renamed in 1987 in honor of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., whose assassination in 1983 was a pivotal event leading to the People Power Revolution. The stadium has since hosted numerous sporting events and was notably used as a quarantine facility during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rizal Memorial Coliseum
The Rizal Memorial Coliseum is a historic indoor arena in Manila, Philippines, built in 1934 as part of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. It was a central venue for the 1954 Asian Games and has since hosted numerous major sporting events, concerts, and cultural gatherings. The Art Deco-style coliseum is named in honor of the Philippine national hero, Dr. José Rizal.
National University
The National University refers to a common naming convention for prominent public universities in various countries, often established as the nation’s first secular or modern institution of higher education. For instance, the National University of Colombia (Universidad Nacional de Colombia), founded in 1867, was created to provide a centralized, secular education system for the nation. These universities are typically flagship institutions, playing a vital role in their country’s academic, scientific, and cultural development.
Far Eastern University
Far Eastern University (FEU) is a prominent private university in Manila, Philippines, founded in 1928 by academic visionary Nicanor Reyes Sr. It is historically significant for its role in providing accessible education to Filipinos and is renowned for its collection of Art Deco buildings, many of which are National Cultural Treasures.
University of Santo Tomas
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) is a private, Catholic university in Manila, Philippines, founded in 1611 by Archbishop Miguel de Benavides. It is the oldest existing university in Asia and was originally established as a seminary for the education of priests. Throughout its long history, UST has been a prominent center of learning and played a significant role during World War II when its campus was used as an internment camp.
Adamson University
Adamson University is a private Catholic university located in Manila, Philippines, founded in 1932 by Greek chemist George Lucas Adamson as a chemical school. It evolved into a university and was subsequently placed under the patronage of Saint Vincent de Paul, being entrusted to the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) in 1964. The university is now known for its strong programs in engineering, chemistry, and architecture.
Shakey’s Super League Unity Cup
The Shakey’s Super League Unity Cup is a collegiate women’s volleyball tournament in the Philippines, launched in 2022. It was established to provide a competitive platform for university teams and to help develop the sport at the grassroots level, fostering unity among different schools.
Alas Pilipinas
“Alas Pilipinas” is the official name for the Philippine women’s national volleyball team, established in 2024. The name, which translates to “Philippines Wings,” was chosen to symbolize the team’s soaring spirit and its mission to elevate the country’s status in international volleyball. It represents a new, unified era for Philippine volleyball, aiming for success in major tournaments.
