Milena Alessandrini starts rehab after surgery on left knee

MANILA, Philippines—University of Santo Tomas’ Milena Alessandrini has started her road to recovery a week after getting surgery on her left knee.

Alessandrini made her first public appearance since getting injured in the early part of the UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball tournament when the Golden Tigresses lost to Far Eastern University, 19-25, 25-20, 25-19, 27-25.

Season 80’s Rookie of the Year was in the bleachers of Mall of Asia Arena during UST’s game against De La Salle Sunday.

“After surgery, I started my rehabilitation and I’m fine now,” said Alessandrini who uses two crutches to help her move around while her left knee is wrapped in a brace.

“It’s been a week after my surgery and now I’m continuing to recover and monitor my progress.”

Alessandrini suffered a partial tear on her anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee and a Grade 3 sprain on the lateral collateral ligament and medial collateral ligament in the same joint that ultimately sidelined her for the rest of Season 81.

There were hopes that Alessandrini could rejoin the Golden Tigresses during the season but head coach Kung Fu Reyes decided that the best course of action was for the star sophomore to sit out the season.

Alessandrini, who averaged 15.6 points per game, said she’d know when she’d be able to walk freely on Monday after her check up at UST Hospital.

“My teammates tell me to be strong and trust the process,” said Alessandrini.