NU netters go for 3-peat in Olivarez tilt

MANILA, Philippines - National U sets out for another dominant run in the inter-college tournament in the Olivarez Cup 2015 presented by Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala which fires off tomorrow at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.

The Bulldogs overwhelmed the field in the last two stagings of the annual tournament but expect a tough challenge this time with Ateneo, St. Benilde and University of Santo Tomas shoring up their respective rosters to foil the Bustillos-based squad’s three-peat bid.

Also in the fold are San Sebastian, University of the Philippines, University of the East and Arellano U.

NU-A beat UST-A in the finals to cop the men’s team championship while NU-A defeated NU-B to rule the ladies side of the inter-college tilt, which is actually set to start next week with hostilities in the juniors division ushering in the two-weeklong top ranking tournament held in honor of the former Parañaque City Mayor Dr. Pablo Olivarez.

Chris Prulla, Dave Mosqueda, Abson Alejandre and Emmanuela Fuellas headline the boys’ roster in the 18-and-under section while Monica Therese Cruz, Shaira Rivera, Rafaella Villanueva and Bettina Bautista banner the girls’ side of the premier class.

“It will be two-week showcase of the best in the tennis with so many young, promising players raring to showcase their wares against the veterans,” said Philta president and incumbent Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez, who helped put up the event along with Rep. Eric Olivarez and Dr. Pablo Olivarez as part of the family’s long-time commitment to develop the sport and help in the talent-search.