MANILA, Philippines – Lourdes Clemente is reportedly set to suit up for De La Salle University when Season 81 of the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament unwraps early next year.
Multiple sources said the lanky middle blocker has been regularly training with the Lady Spikers after formally earning her bachelor’s degree at University of Perpetual Help Dalta System recently.
She further fanned speculations when she posted on her social media account her photo with caption “one and done” and “hello to my new home” laced with a green heart, the official team color of the Lady Spikers.
Clemente’s move to La Salle didn’t come as a surprise.
She’s already familiar with the system of La Salle coach Ramil de Jesus after seeing action for F2 Logistics in the Philippine Superliga this year.
“She’s headed for La Salle where she will take up her master’s degree,” said the source, speaking on condition of anonymity because things are still developing.
“If things do not miscarry, we’re expecting her to suit up in the next UAAP season.”
F2 Logistics team manager Hollie Reyes refused to confirm speculations, but hinted that they are now processing the possible transfer of Clemente.
Reyes, who was part of La Salle’s first couple of championship runs, said nothing is definite at the moment as they are still working on Clemente’s credentials and other pertinent school documents.
“Nothing is definite at the moment,” said the amiable Cargo Movers’ official.
“We really couldn’t say that it’s already a go as we’re still in the process of securing her school documents. After that, we’ll inquire at La Salle to check if she can enroll in its Masters program.”
At La Salle, the 6-foot-1 Clemente is tipped to blossom into one of the country’s best middle hitters as de Jesus has a knack on developing good blockers like Maureen Penetrante-Ouano, Jacquelyn Alarca, Aby Marano and Mika Reyes.
And with another promising player in Aduke Ogunsanya at the defensive end, the Lady Spikers would definitely maintain its status as a solid defensive squad.
“We’ll know more within this month,” said Reyes.