By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrense Shaira Jardio and Evangeline Alinsug have indicated their readiness to take on greater responsibilities for the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs in their three-peat bid in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament.

Jardio, who was named UAAP Spotify co-finals Most Valuable Player with Alinsug, said she is also aware of the need to step up her game further next season to continue the winning tradition.

“Sobrang laking bagay sa akin itong finals MVP kasi gusto ko ding i-lead ‘yung team ko,” Jardio said.

“Siguro ito na ‘yung time para i-lead namin ‘yung team kasi mawawala na ‘yung seniors,” she added.

Alinsug stated that she is fully equipped to assume the scoring responsibilities for the Lady Bulldogs in light of the departures of Mhicaela Belen and Alyssa Solomon following UAAP Season 87.

“I think yes po, [it’s our time to shine na], knowing na aalis na talaga sila. Sana sa mga maiiwan, madala namin ito sa susunod na season,” Alinsug said in an interview after NU captured the Season 87 crown on Wednesday, May 14.

“Alam ko rin naman talaga na kahit wala na ‘yung seniors namin sa first six, madaming mawawala. Meron ding mas malakas pa na papalit, and paghihirapan naman namin ‘yun hanggang sa mag-season ulit,” she added.

Jardio and Alinsug will join Negrenses Arah Panique and Celine Marsh, Guimarasnon Camilla Lamina, Chams Maaya, Alexa Mata, and Kaye Bombita as among the Lady Bulldogs’ holdovers for next season./ASC, WDJ