De La Salle Lady Spikers aim to defend UAAP title with new talent

De La Salle Lady Spikers, defending champions in the UAAP Season 86 women's volleyball tournament, aim to retain their title despite losing key players Fifi Sharma, Mars Alba, Jolina Dela Cruz, and Justine Jazareno to professional leagues.

Assistant coach Noel Orcullo emphasizes that being the defending champions means facing tougher competition from rival schools and stresses the need for double preparation in training camps like the one held in Thailand.

Fourth-year middle blocker Thea Gagate expresses confidence in leading her teammates towards another championship, embracing her role as team captain and starting setter after gaining trust from coaches and teammates.

Gagate acknowledges the challenge ahead but focuses on guiding the squad step by step, emphasizing the importance of consistent effort and vocal leadership to defend their title against tough competition.

With the departure of key players, La Salle relies on new talents like Rookie of the Year-Most Valuable Player Angel Canino and two-time best middle blocker Thea Gagate to maintain competitiveness in this season.