The Mapúa University Cardinals men's volleyball team settled for a silver medal finish in NCAA Season 101 after falling short in the championship series held in Manila. Despite the ultimate loss, the Cardinals expressed immense pride in their journey to the finals.
"We gave it our all," stated head coach Clarence Esteban in post-game remarks. "The campaign was a testament to the program's development and the players' dedication throughout the grueling season."
The Cardinals' run highlighted the growing competitiveness of Philippine collegiate volleyball beyond traditional powerhouses. Their determination throughout the tournament earned widespread respect from opponents and fans alike.
A key moment came when the Cardinals defeated the College of Saint Benilde in a thrilling four-set Game 1 of the finals. Scores were 19-25, 25-23, 25-21, 25-23, showcasing their ability to bounce back from early setbacks.
"We showed what this program is capable of," Esteban added. "The future looks bright for Mapua volleyball."
Star player Arjay Ramos was instrumental in powering the team to the finals berth. He delivered a game-high 20 points in a crucial match, embodying the team's all-out philosophy and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
The Cardinals faced determined opponents throughout the season, navigating challenging matches with resilience and unity. Their journey to the championship series marked a significant milestone for the program.
While the silver medal may not have been the desired outcome, the Cardinals' performance signals a new era of competitiveness for Mapúa University in collegiate volleyball. The team will look to build on this experience as they prepare for future campaigns.
