Dani Ravena stars in Ateneo’s Game 2 fightback. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—It was Dani Ravena’s time to be the hero for Ateneo.
With the Lady Eagles fighting to keep their season alive, Ravena shone bright and helped her team send the UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball Finals to a decider with a 26-24, 14-25, 25-21, 25-15 win over University of Santo Tomas.
Coming from a sporting family, the youngest Ravena is surrounded by people who know what it’s like to be in a spotlight and with their support, she’s glad she found her moment.
“Last night mom called, this morning Thirdy, then when I got here Kiefer was the one who called,” said Ravena. “I guess they’re here for so many years.”
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Ravena dad is former PBA star Bong Ravena, 1992 PBA Rookie of the Year and five-time champion, while her mom is UST legend Mozzy, who won two titles with the Golden Tigresses.
Brothers Thirdy and Kiefer have also made a name for themselves in basketball.
Thirdy is a two-time UAAP champion and two-time Finals MVP with Ateneo while Kiefer has a sterling resume that includes two UAAP titles, two MVPs and four gold medals in the Southeast Asian Games.
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“They know how it feels to win and lose, and I think that’s a blessing for me that they share their passion with me,” said Ravena. “That helps me knowing that there’s so many people you.”
Ravena finished with 22 excellent digs and 12 successful receptions and another factor in her motivation are her seniors Maddie Madayag and Bea De Leon.
“How can you say no to the rest of the seniors?” said Ravena. “They still want to go to training, and I really want them to have a goodbye with no regrets.”