MAASIN, Iloilo — Santa Clarita International School Inc. Secondary Girls stamped their dominance in the regional youth volleyball scene after capturing the championship of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Under-18 Western Visayas Eliminations on Sunday.
The Lady Primes sealed the regional crown with a thrilling 25-18, 25-21, 34-32 victory over Iloilo Doctors’ College in the finals, earning the right to represent Western Visayas in the Visayas Finals in Cebu.
Santa Clarita leaned on the strong performance of 5-foot-9 hitter Ryza Sespeñe, whose attacking power helped the Lady Primes control the match and withstand a fierce late rally by IDC in the extended third set.
The Lady Primes entered the knockout stage with momentum after finishing the elimination round with a 4-1 win-loss record. They then booked their finals berth by overpowering Team Angels in the semifinals via a straight-sets victory.
Santa Clarita quickly established command in the championship match, taking the opening set behind Sespeñe’s consistent scoring and solid floor defense.
The Lady Primes sustained their rhythm in the second frame, using timely blocks and strong service pressure to keep Iloilo Doctors’ College on the defensive.
IDC, however, mounted a determined stand in the third set as both squads traded points in a tense battle that stretched deep into extended play.
Despite the challenge, Santa Clarita maintained its composure and eventually closed out the match after a series of crucial attacks and defensive stops to secure the regional title.
“We are happy with this victory. The girls played their hearts out,” said Santa Clarita school administrator Jessica Buckley.
Members of the championship squad include Rice Rayne Ureta, Rexal Ureta, Sofia Aryana Erika Tiñas, Aquesha Guinea, Valerie Ycoy, Juliana Camarines, Smol Simora, Rhiena Marie Sualibios, Arsha Marie Joy Pido, Jiuliane Marynz Castañeda, Jessan Salcedo, Krystine Anyka Amen, and Jandieh Abolucion.
With the triumph, Santa Clarita will now carry the Western Visayas banner in the upcoming Visayas Finals in Cebu, where the Lady Primes will face the region’s top youth volleyball teams for a shot at advancing further in the national tournament./PN
