NU builds up for 2012

MANILA, Philippines - Determined to make a difference in next year’s UAAP when its time to play host, National University has embarked on a massive development program for its varsity squads, especially on its women’s basketball team.

With Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc. joining forces with SM, Save More and Supermart Group, the Lady Bulldogs are out to challenge perennial finalists Adamson and Far Eastern University to raise their first-ever championship trophy in the premier collegiate league.

The mission appears so difficult but coach Paul Du and chief backers Herbert Sy of SM Group Companies and Ever Bilena chair Dioceldo Sy are convinced their players have the resilience, courage and talent to win the coveted UAAP crown next year.

For the coming UAAP season where they hope to make it to the Final Four, the management has lined up a series of exhibition matches for the Lady Bulldogs, including a four-game Goodwill series in Taiwan which was arranged by team manager Mike Tan and Johnson Martines.

The Lady Bulldogs, who finished fifth last year, left yesterday for Taipei where they are scheduled to face Taiwan Electric Power Company, Cathay Insurance and two tough collegiate teams.

“Since most of my players are rookies, they need proper exposure and I believe our trip in Taiwan will provide them experience they need to get tougher,” said Du who is focusing more on sharpening the team’s shooting and defensive skills.

Herbert Sy, accompanied by sons Herson and Hendrick, was present during a recent send-off party at the Mall of Asia (MOA) where he challenged the Lady Bulldogs to train and work hard to achieve their goal next year.

“I know it’s going to be a tough mission but I believe that with proper teamwork, dedication and hardwork, the mission is doable. Besides, we have several promising players,” said Sy. “We have a young but talented team right now.”

Dioceldo Sy, on the other hand, said members of the team’s coaching staff, led by Patrick Aquino, are still scouting for tall but mobile players to firm up their lineup.

“We still need tall players to complement our solid backcourt combo,” said Sy.

The Lady Bulldogs, according to Du, will be bannered by Pamela Menese, Eden Kay Alla, Ma. Teresa Pama, Roselyn Santos and Krisrtina Tolentino. The other members of the squad are Kristine Alejo, Ana Thea Cenarosa, Nina Naomi Mendoza, Elaine Moll, Melody Oriel and Nelia Sinsioco.