Maraguinot raring to return for Ateneo

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Finally cleared to play after nursing a stress fracture on her left leg, Jho Maraguinot remained at the sidelines when Ateneo played Far Eastern University in Game 1 of the best-of-3 semifinals on Monday.

“Nakakainis,” she said. “Di ako pinapansin ni coach Tai (Bundit). Nagpapa-sub na ako pero di niya ako pinapansin.”

Maraguinot, who has yet to play this conference, is aching to hit the floor  as she hopes to contribute in the Lady Eagles’ campaign in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Collegiate Conference.

“Sobrang gusto kong maglaro,” she said.

But the third-year open hitter understands her coach’s decision as Bundit wants her to be in tip-top shape come the UAAP season.

“Iniintindi ko na lang. For UAAP din,” she said.

Maraguinot returned to practice on Friday, but was limited to light drills as the coaching staff opted to handle her situation with a little more care.

With Ateneo a win away from a return trip to the V-League Finals, Maraguinot expressed her eagerness to help the Lady Eagles in their quest for a third title in the league.

“As much as possible, gusto ko siya gawan ng paraan na if ever makapasok kami ng Finals, I want to play,” she said.