FEU to retire Daquis’ no. 3 jersey

PSL F2-Logistics Manila led by Rachel Anne Daquis. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

One of the most recognizable faces in Far Eastern University’s storied athletic history, Rachel Anne Daquis will be immortalized in the school’s annals as her no. 3 jersey is set to be retired.

The school announced on Tuesday that it is recognizing Daquis’ contributions, not just in the UAAP but also in Philippine volleyball.

“Rachel was more than just a great player in FEU, she was the first superstar in UAAP Women’s Volleyball when the league became mainstream 10 years ago because of TV coverage. She actually became a bigger star after her time as a student-athlete because she continues to excel in the commercial leagues and captained several national teams, while also having a good career in modeling,” said FEU athletics director Mark Molina in the statement.

“For all her accomplishments, Rachel remains humble and driven just like when she first arrived in FEU to try out for a spot in the team.”

Daquis will only be the third athlete whose number will be retired by FEU, following basketball stars Johnny Abarrientos’ jersey no. 14 and Arwind Santos’ jersey no. 19.

She will also be the second volleyball player in the UAAP to get her jersey number retired after La Salle did such with Lady Spiker Manilla Santos’ jersey no. 14.

Daquis donned the green-and-gold for five-years, leading the Lady Tamaraws to three Finals appearances, the sweetest of which coming in 2007 when she helped FEU claim the UAAP Season 70 title
She also was named Best Server twice before ending her collegiate career in 2009.

The 28-year-old has also donned the national tri-colors, representing the Philippines in numerous international tiffs, with her recent stint coming in the 2015 Sea Games.

She was also named as the team captain of F2 Logistics in the recently concluded 2016 FIVB Women’s Club World Championship.

Daquis also proved her worth after her UAAP years, winning Conference MVP in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 All Filipino Conference, as well as the Finals MVP in the 2015 Philippine Super Liga All-Filipino Conference, both with Philippine Army.

The jersey retirement ceremony is expected to be held sometime during the course of UAAP Season 79 women’s volleyball tournament.