Ateneo Volleyball Player

The Ateneo de Manila University has a rich history in sports, and volleyball is no exception. The Ateneo Lady Eagles and Blue Eagles have always been at the forefront of college volleyball, exhibiting exceptional skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. This article will explore the journey of Ateneo volleyball in the UAAP, its recent achievements, memorable matches, training routines, support for its student-athletes, and more.
Ateneo has produced many notable volleyball players over the years. Alyssa Valdez, known as the ‘Phenom,’ is arguably the most famous Ateneo volleyball player, with multiple MVP awards and a successful professional career. Other notable players include Kim Gequillana, Marck Espejo, and Jia Morado.

What are the recent achievements of Ateneo volleyball players?

The Ateneo volleyball teams have had numerous achievements in recent years. The Lady Eagles won the UAAP Women’s Volleyball Championship in 2019, which was their third title in five years. Marck Espejo, a former Blue Eagle, became the first player to win five consecutive MVP awards in the UAAP.This was a significant achievement as they defeated the UST Golden Tigresses in a best-of-three finals series. This victory marked their first championship win since 2015 and their third overall UAAP women’s volleyball championship.

The Ateneo Blue Eagles, the men’s volleyball team, have also had success in recent years, winning the UAAP men’s volleyball championship in Seasons 77 (2015) and 78 (2016).

Who is the current coach of the Ateneo volleyball team?

As of 2021, the head coach of the Ateneo Lady Eagles is Oliver Almadro, while the head coach of the Blue Eagles is Timothy Sto. Tomas.

What is the fan base like for Ateneo volleyball?

The fan base for Ateneo volleyball is incredibly passionate and supportive. The Ateneo community, including students, alumni, and fans, rally behind their teams during matches, and social media is always buzzing with support for the Lady Eagles and Blue Eagles.

1. Large and Loyal: The Ateneo volleyball teams, both men’s and women’s, have a large and loyal fan base. This includes current students and alumni of Ateneo de Manila University, as well as volleyball enthusiasts who admire the skills and sportsmanship of the Ateneo players.
2. Passionate: Ateneo fans are known for their passion and enthusiasm. They often show up in large numbers for matches, wearing the school colors, and actively cheering for their team.
3. Supportive: The fans are incredibly supportive of the players, both in victory and defeat. They often show their support on social media and other online platforms.

Are there any documentaries about Ateneo volleyball players?

Yes, there are several documentaries about Ateneo volleyball players. “The Flight of the Lady Eagles” is a documentary that follows the journey of the Ateneo Lady Eagles during UAAP Season 76. “Phenoms” is a documentary series that features the journey of Alyssa Valdez and Kim Gequillana.

Ateneo athletes, including volleyball players, have been featured in various sports programs, interviews, and segments on Philippine television and online platforms.

For example, ABS-CBN Sports and Action, before it was shut down, used to have segments and features on UAAP athletes, including those from Ateneo. Additionally, some players like Alyssa Valdez, who is considered one of the greatest volleyball players in the Philippines, have been featured in various interviews and talk shows.

Tell me about the rivalry between Ateneo and other UAAP volleyball teams.

The most notable rivalry in UAAP volleyball is between the Ateneo Lady Eagles and the De La Salle Lady Spikers. Matches between these two teams are highly anticipated and often attract large crowds. This rivalry has produced many memorable matches, including the epic comeback of the Lady Eagles in UAAP Season 76.

1. Ateneo vs. De La Salle University (DLSU) This is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in Philippine collegiate sports, not just in volleyball but across all sports. It’s commonly referred to as the “Ateneo-La Salle Rivalry”. The matches between the Ateneo Lady Eagles and the De La Salle Lady Spikers often draw the largest crowds and television audiences. Both teams have consistently been among the strongest in the league, and their matches are often crucial in determining the final standings. The rivalry is not just limited to the women’s teams; the men’s teams also have a strong rivalry.
2. Ateneo vs. University of Santo Tomas (UST) The matches between Ateneo and UST are also highly anticipated. Both universities have strong volleyball programs and have produced many memorable matches over the years.
3. Ateneo vs. Far Eastern University (FEU) FEU has a strong volleyball tradition, and matches between Ateneo and FEU are always competitive and intense.

How do Ateneo volleyball players balance sports and academics?

Ateneo volleyball players are encouraged to maintain a healthy balance between sports and academics. The university provides academic support to its student-athletes, including tutors and flexible schedules. Time management and discipline are crucial for balancing training, matches, and academic responsibilities.

1. Time Management: Players often have a strict daily schedule that they adhere to, which includes time for classes, studying, practice, and rest. Effective time management is crucial to ensure that all responsibilities are met.
2. Prioritization: Players need to prioritize their tasks and focus on the most important ones first. This may involve completing assignments or studying for exams during breaks in the sports schedule.
3. Support System: Ateneo provides a strong support system for its student-athletes. This includes academic advisors, tutors, and mentors who help the players manage their academic responsibilities.
4. Discipline: Discipline is a key trait for any athlete, and it is especially important for student-athletes who need to balance multiple responsibilities. Ateneo volleyball players are disciplined in their approach to both sports and academics.

Share some memorable quotes from Ateneo volleyball players.

• “Heartstrong. It’s not just a battle cry. It’s a way of life.” – Alyssa Valdez
• “We don’t just play for ourselves. We play for the whole Ateneo community.” – Marck Espejo
• Alyssa Valdez: “Heartstrong. It’s not just a battle cry. It’s a way of life.” This quote reflects the resilience and determination that Valdez and her teammates embodied during their time at Ateneo.
• Marck Espejo: “We don’t just play for ourselves. We play for the whole Ateneo community.” Espejo’s quote highlights the sense of community and shared purpose that is a hallmark of Ateneo’s sports culture.
• Jia Morado: “In volleyball, you don’t have to be the tallest, the strongest, the most powerful. It’s a thinking sport. You have to be two steps ahead.” Morado’s quote reflects the strategic thinking and mental agility required to excel in volleyball.

What is the recruitment process for Ateneo volleyball talents?

The recruitment process for Ateneo volleyball talents typically involves tryouts, where coaches assess the skills and potential of aspiring players. Additionally, scouts may also identify promising talents during regional and national tournaments. It is important to have a strong academic record as Ateneo values both sports and academics.

1. Scouting: Talents are often scouted during regional and national tournaments. Coaches and scouts from Ateneo attend these events to identify promising players.
2. Tryouts: Aspiring players can also attend tryouts organized by Ateneo. During these tryouts, coaches assess the skills, potential, and attitude of the players. Tryouts usually involve a series of drills, exercises, and sometimes, mock matches.
3. Academic Records: It is essential to have a strong academic record as Ateneo places a high value on both sports and academics. Prospective student-athletes need to submit their academic records as part of the application process.
4. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews with the coaching staff and possibly university officials. This is to assess the player’s character, dedication, and fit with the university’s values and culture.