UAAP: Shaira Jardio rising to the ocassion for NU Lady Bulldogs

NU Lady Bulldogs libero Shaira Jardio in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Embracing a bigger role this season, National University main libero Shaira Jardio takes on the challenge with a positive mindset ahead of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball Final Four.

Jardio protected NU’s floor with 16 excellent receptions and 11 digs for the Lady Bulldogs, who secured a twice-to-beat advantage with a 25-21, 25-19, 25-22 win over Far Eastern University on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

ADVERTISEMENT

The sophomore defensive specialist embraced the challenge of keeping the ball alive for the Lady Bulldogs in her first year as a starter after Jennifer Nierva’s departure.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 86 volleyball second round

“I keep a positive mindset inside the court because I have a big role inside the court. I can’t be missing factor for my team,” said Jardio in Filipino. “Ate Bella [Belen] and others are there to lead. But with my bigger role, I have to step up and stay consistent.”

Jardio wasn’t contented with her showing despite NU completing a second-round sweep with a 12-2 record in the elimination round.

“I’m not my usual self in this game. This wasn’t my best. I can do more for my team in crucial games. I can be more consistent in crucial games,” she said. 

NU coach Norman Miguel stressed the importance of Jardio and other players in their upcoming Final Four campaign aside from the troika of Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Vange Alinsug.

“We know that their trio is our main arsenal, they are our triangle. But they won’t be formidable without the support of our other players, middle blockers for block and Shaira for passing and digs, other liberos,” said Miguel in Filipino.

ADVERTISEMENT

“We don’t rely on three players, we need the other players’ support and aside from their skills, we need their leadership and trust.”

NU needs a losing result from the University of Santo Tomas against La Salle on Saturday to clinch the top seed and face FEU (9-5) in the Final Four on May 4. If UST beats La Salle, the twice-to-beat Lady Bulldogs will drop to the No.2 spot and take on the Lady Spikers.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

EDITORS’ PICK

MOST READ

View comments