There’s no doubt that Adamson’s bid to end its title-drought in the heated UAAP volleyball wars depends on the performances of its Big Three.
Composed of Ma. Paulina ‘Pau’ Soriano, Sheila ‘‘Bhebs” Pineda and Luisa Mae ‘‘Mayette” Zapanta, the Big Three is well-known in the local volleyball circles as the key to the success of the Lady Falcons in the face of awesome competitions.
‘‘We do our job. Winning is about teamwork. There are three other players on court. Our job is to lift our team and follow the instructions of our coach,” said the 5-foot-7 Soriano, who like Pineda and Zapanta, are veterans of the Shakey’s V-League.
Zapanta, a Customs Administration student, is playing with gusto. After losing unwanted poundage, Zapanta, a native of Davao City, has the extra kick in her hits and defense.
Pineda endears herself to the crowd with gutsy kills against taller defenders.
‘‘I know my role,” said the 5-foot-4 Pineda. ‘‘We’re up against tough rivals and we must not let our guards down.”
After finishing the first round of eliminations with a 4-3 card, the Big Three believes that they can still improve and show the favorites a run for their money.
‘‘We’ve learned from our mistakes. We are determined to do better in the next round,” Soriano concluded.
As a starter, the Lady Falcons got back at first round tormentors Ateneo Lady Eagles in five thrilling sets at the start of the second round.