Southwestern U sweeps USC to bag CESAFI volleyball title

CEBU, Philippines - One down, one to go.

The Lady Cobras of Southwestern University consummated a two-game sweep of the University of San Carlos (USC) in their best-of-three finals series to claim their first secondary girls volleyball title in the Cebu Schools Athletic Federation, Inc. (CESAFI) the other night at the Aznar Coliseum.

Today, Southwestern U shoots for a golden double as it battles the Cebu Doctors' University (CDU) in Game 2 of their own race-to-2 duel for the women's collegiate crown. Before the SWU-CDU clash, the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) takes on the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) for the third place trophy.

After being forced by the Carolinians into a three-set thriller during the opener, 25-21, 14-25, 25-21, the SWU girls showed superb spiking skills this time in their 25-16, 25-19 demolition of USC.

“Game 2 is much easier because we didn't have to go through a deciding set. My players played so well today and I am thankful to God for this victory,” said SWU head coach Jordan Paca.

Among those who figured prominently in SWU's crowning glory were Mary Angelu “Angel” Castillo, Karen Frances Derder, Marienne Calinawan and Crisley Anne Sucalit.

Aside from that, SWU's prized catch Lorene Grace Toring, a 13-year-old, 5-foot-10 prospect, was also a revelation, showing great blocks that oftentimes prevented USC players from attacking near the net. The young Toring is the daughter of former basketball star Rene Toring.

“It's only her first year in the team and she did really well today. We look forward to seeing her improve more,” added Paca.

In the battle for third, USJ-R pulled off a hard-earned 25-13, 24-26, 25-17 victory over the equaly-tough Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC). (FREEMAN)