After Shakey’s win, FEU eyes UAAP title

MANILA, Philippines — As Far Eastern University clinched its first Shakey’s V-League championship on Sunday, coach Cesael “Shaq” Delos Santos also made a record of his own as the most successful coach in tournament history with four titles.

“Actually I was excited to coach this series because it was FEU’s first time to reach the finals,” said Delos Santos, who previously won three championships with the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses.

Delos Santos rallied his team to a two-game sweep of the top-seeded National University without dropping a single set, with the help of guest players Jovelyn Gonzaga and former Queen Tamaraw Rachel Anne Daquis.

“I’m happy that I was still able to serve FEU even if I already graduated,” said Daquis, the Finals MVP. “I think I was able to show them how to be a good leader and I know they’ll be able to apply it in the UAAP.”

Delos Santos similarly hopes the Lady Tamaraws will translate their new-found V-League success into a UAAP breakthrough this year.

“Our goal here is to just gain as much experience as we can and hopefully apply it in the UAAP,” said Delos Santos, who cited the improved plays of power-hitter Bernadette Pons, Remy Palma and libero Christine Agno.

“[They] have gained a lot from this experience. The whole team as well. The confidence we got here will go a long, long way in the UAAP.” Paul Kennedy A. Lintag, Contributor