MANILA, Philippines–Adamson University defeated University of Santo Tomas, 11-2, Tuesday to extend its championship reign in the UAAP softball tournament to nine years.
Arianne Vallestero, a transferee from National University, had a tremendous performance in her final game in college, delivering two hits and three runs for the Lady Falcons’ 18th championship overall.
“I needed her this year. She carried us in this game,” said coach Ana Santiago of her star. “She told me, thank you Ate Anna because I finally experienced winning a UAAP championship.”
Vallestero emerged as the season MVP, the Best Hitter (.556), Best Slugger (.972) and Most RBIs (16). She also shared the Most Homerun award with UST’s Charlotte Sales with three and Most Stolen Bases with her teammate Angelu Gabriel with six.
“I didn’t feel any pressure. I wasn’t nervous. I just enjoyed myself and went all out,” said Vallestero in Filipino.
Lyca Basa captured the Finals MVP honors and made it two in a row as the league’s Best Pitcher with 1.167 earned run average.
Nicole Padasas also shone with four hits and three RBIs, while MJ Maguad and Jeanette Rusia scored two runs for Adamson.
The Lady Falcons, who only dropped only a single game this season, swept the best-of-three series.