Michele Gumabao • Belle of the ball

MANILA, Philippines - Whenever Michele Gumabao steps into the volleyball court for the De La Salle Lady Spikers, she comes in with focus and dedication. Her intimidating stance coupled with her 5’9” form speaks of a grueling and nerve-wracking match for her team’s opponent. Her spikes are almost unstoppable. It is more than the excitement and enthusiasm that keeps Michele in the right zone amidst the crowd’s deafening cheers. It’s her passion to always be her best in everything she does. She may be tough enough to lead her team to victory, but she can also be as sweet as candy.

“Volleyball taught me to be patient. It taught me to work hard for what I want and I learned to listen to other people,” says Michele, who was named the UAAP Season 75 Finals MVP for Women’s Volleyball.

Despite the demands of volleyball training, this 21-year-old volleybelle managed to get good grades. She will graduate in October with a degree in Marketing Management. “I value my academics a lot. I set my goals for the future and not only based on my hobbies now. As much as possible, I separate my volleyball and academic life so I can focus on each, 100 percent.”

Michele, fifth of seven children of actor-turned-pastor Dennis Roldan and Loli Imperial-Gumabao, gains her strength from her family. “My family makes me happy. I had a childhood that’s full of love, great experiences and joy. My parents brought us up in a very lenient way. They taught us how to make decisions on our own and be independent,” she shares. As many opportunities are now knocking on Michele’s door, her family is there to support her. “They are there for me every step of the way and they are always supportive of all my dreams,” she says.

Michele is certain that the great amount of self-discipline she gained from playing volleyball has equipped her to survive what’s ahead of her, on and off court. With endorsements, guestings and a TV hosting stint, she values what she has learned from her sport. “Getting into sports prepares you in life because self-discipline and hard work are traits needed for you to achieve your goals. Now, I just take on all the opportunities that come my way, with proper advice and guidance. I enjoy being busy and doing what I’m doing now.”

“Be bold, learn to take risks and accept change because change can also be good,” Michele says.

With plans to move on from the familiar, Michele will still hear cheers, but from a different crowd, in a different arena where a new career for her awaits. She may not be the Lady Spiker with the jersey No. 7 anymore, but the Lady Spiker will conquer what’s ahead — with her feet firmly planted on the ground.

 Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Creative direction by LUIS ESPIRITU JR. • Styling by RUDOLPH LEONOR • Standing layout: Makeup by SARI CAMPOS • Hairstyling by CHA VICUÑA  • Beauty shot: Makeup by REGIE ESCOLIN • Hairstyling by CHA VICUÑA • Both dresses by GRACE ONG  • Jewelry by MILADAY JEWELS • Shot on location at the RAFFLES POOL Area