Valdez unsurprised with Ateneo’s performance in Season 79

FILE —Alyssa Valdez was one of the hosts of the 2016 UAAP Cheerdance Competition. Photo by Mark Giongco

Ateneo’s performance in Season 79 didn’t anymore suprise Alyssa Valdez, who always believed the Lady Eagles would remain a force to be reckoned with in the UAAP volleyball scene even after her departure.

Their fate this season had been the subject of speculation after Valdez’ graduation with the three-time MVP practically anchoring the Lady Eagles’ success in the past half a decade.

Valdez, however, doesn’t think the Lady Eagles’ mystique does not revolve on her alone and it will always the ones who currently have “Ateneo” on their chests who will carry the team’s legacy.

“The system is still there, coach Tai [Bundit] is still there, the other girls are still there and even more talent came in since I left,” said Valdez Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum. “The team’s success doesn’t necessarily get taken away when someone leaves, it’s definitely shouldered on the system and on those still with the team.”

Valdez’ point was on full display when the Lady Eagles crushed defending champions and archrival De La Salle, 12-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-19, to top the UAAP Season 79 women’s volleyball table with a 12-2 record.

Outside hitter Jhoana Maraguinot was given the day off against the Lady Spikers, but rookie Jules Samonte was on hand to carry the responsibility.

Samonte, in place of Maraguinot, finished with 10 points, giving credence to Valdez’ belief that the system will always carry Ateneo.

“Ateneo is really adapting very well to the system coach Tai made,” said Valdez. “The success revolves on not only one player, but around all the players.”