By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Rafael B. Lacson Memorial High School (RBLMHS) in Negros Occidental’s Talisay City emerged as champion of the Mayor Atty. Rowena “Weng” Lopez Lizares ODL Volleyball League Women’s Open Category, topping a competitive field in the city tournament.

Representing Talisay, the RBLMHS girls outlasted the St. John’s Institute Falcons, who settled for first runner-up honors.

Trinity Christian School placed second runner-up, while EVA-GELO finished third runner-up in the event.

RBLMHS also dominated the individual awards, led by Most Valuable Player Kristel May Mirasol.

Teammates Seth Meinelle Geanga was named Best Opposite Hitter, Sophie Nichole Pamplona earned Best Middle Blocker honors, Crisyl Joy Jocson was cited as Best Setter, and Marvee Magbanua took home the Best Libero award.

St. John’s Marteena Ferrer was recognized as Best Server, while Caera Celis was named Best Open Hitter.

Coached by Allen Jane Gumban, the championship squad used the tournament as part of their preparation for the Negros Island Regional Athletic Association Meet.

The Mayor Weng ODL Volleyball League gathered several school teams in the women’s open division and was organized as part of the city’s continuing grassroots sports development program./ASC, WDJ