Joshua Retamar returns for one last run with NU Bulldogs in UAAP

NU’s Josh Retamar. UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Star setter Joshua Retamar has committed to play one last time for the National University Bulldogs ahead of their ‘four-peat’ quest in the UAAP Season 86 men’s volleyball tournament next year.

Retamar on Thursday announced through Virtual Playground, his management agency, that he will be playing one more season with the program that honed him to become one of the best playmakers in Philippine volleyball.

“NU has been incredibly generous and supportive throughout my career. Returning to the Bulldogs is my way of giving back and expressing gratitude,” said the former national team setter in a statement. “When the coaches approached me, there was no hesitation; my heart is set on helping the team achieve more success.”

The 21-year-old UAAP star has already played a few games for NU in the ongoing Spikers’ Turf tournament before he expressed his commitment to see action in the collegiate ranks one last time.

Retamar and the Bulldogs completed a 16-game sweep of the Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament capped by a championship series win over University of Santo Tomas.

NU Bulldogs complete season sweep in UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball. –UAAP PHOTO

Retamar earned his first UAAP Best Setter award and was also crowned as Finals MVP last May.

The NU captain is looking forward to orchestrating the plays of coach Dante Alinsunurin for holdovers Michaelo Buddin, Nico Almendras, and Obed Mukaba including their rookies led by prized recruit Jade Disquitado.

“I’m thrilled to lead this talented group of players and take on the challenges posed by the strengthened lineups of our competitors. Together, we aim to uphold the legacy of excellence that NU is known for,” he said.

Retamar was the starting setter of the Philippine men’s volleyball team, which earned a historic silver medal in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

He continued to represent the national team until last year before bravely revealing the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF)’s lack of support to the men’s squad.

Since then he has yet to return to the national team and gave his full commitment to NU.