Ateneo Lady Eagles. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Reigning UAAP champion La Salle and Ateneo, two schools who have waged countless battles in the collegiate sporting scene, have come together for a cause greater than their rivalry.
Led by superstars Alyssa Valdez and Mika Reyes, Ateneo and La Salle have joined forces for a charity volleyball game dubbed “Battle of the Rivals” on July 16 at Mall of Asia Arena.
The event, organized by Rebisco, aims to raise funds for the scholarship programs of the Ateneo De Manila University Foundation and De La Salle University Foundation and Rebisco Foundation, Inc.
“It’s something greater than ourselves. It’s not just volleyball but it is also for the benefit of other people, especially the future generations of student-athletes and I’m very honored that they tapped me to be part of this,” Denden Lazaro, a vital part of the Ateneo’s championship runs in 2014 and 2015, told Inquirer.net Monday in a press conference at Buffalo Wild Wings at Capitol Commons in Pasig City.
“Volleyball has a growing popularity in the Philippines and we wanted to take advantage of that fact in making relevance and at the same time raise funds for the scholarship programs of the three entities,” said Lulu dela Peña of Rebisco Philippines.
Valdez and Lazaro will reunite with former Ateneo players Fille Cainglet, Ella de Jesus, Amy Ahomiro and team up with current Lady Eagles Jia Morado, Maddie Madayag and Jho Maraguinot.
“Now it’s not just all about giving pride and joy to your school by wearing your uniform. It’s playing the sport that you love for a greater cause and giving back,” said Valdez, a three-time UAAP MVP. “This game will really bring back a lot of memories for us.”
La Salle, which defeated Ateneo this year to keep the women’s crown, will also flaunt a star-studded roster.
La Salle Lady Spikers. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Joining Reyes are Aby Maraño, Kim Fajardo, Ara Galang, Cha Cruz, Michele Gumabao, Melissa Gohing and Cyd Demecillo.
“I’m very happy and excited that finally, I’ll be with my teammates before and I’ll be able to compete against our rival school,” said Reyes, who was one of the best defenders during her time.
The players also vowed to give fans an entertaining yet intense game.
“We’re going to have fun but at the same time, we also want to give the fans a competitive game,” said Gohing.