3-time champion SWU volleybelles face UC in opener

The Southwestern University Lady Cobras will start their drive for a fourth straight crown when the seniors volleyball competition in the Cesafi starts this Sunday at the University of San Carlos gym.

For the past three years, the Lady Cobras have been the cream of the crop in the women’s tournament. Last year, they won over the belles of USC to complete a rare three-peat.

The wards of head coach Jordan Paca and team manager Ryan Aznar have set their eyes on a fourth title.

“We will definitely do our best. We cannot afford to be complacent. Every team is eager to beat us. With a new setter and with (Princess) Pido no longer with the team, I can still say that our team is a competitive one. We still have Danika (Gendrauli) and Rap-Rap (Aguilar) plus Marlyn Llagoso is really improving,” said Aznar.

Gone from the squad are old reliable Princess Pido and Lorie May Layno but still have a loaded team with Loida Abellana, Hansel Bantiles, Al Sheree Eupena, Necca dela Llana, Evan Genargue, Jerra Pacinio, Charrylou Paden, Razel Taculod, Anna Sabanal and Neresa Villanueva.

The Lady Cobras start their campaign with a game against the University of Cebu during this Sunday’s playdate, which will feature five games. The other game in the women’s division will have the University of Southern Philippines Foundation take on USC.

The men’s team of SWU will debut against USPF while USC takes on UC. The University of the Visayas also battles the University of San Jose-Recoletos.