THE University of Midnanao (UM) Tagum survived past Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) SH, 25-11, 25-27, 25-21, 25-13, in their championship match Sunday at the AdDU Martin Hall, Emilio Jacinto Street to claim the title of the Shakey's Girls Volleyball League (SGVL) Southern Mindanao Leg Season 15.
The win booked the team an all-expense paid trip to Laguna for the national finals slated in August.
Breyanna Sasil, who romped away with the most valuable player (MVP) and best setter awards, led the charge for UM Tagum that also leaned on the services of Ebon Lycha (best opposite attacker), Sheena Gallentes (best ooutside attacker), Maxine Tayag (best middle blocker), Joelle Queen Marie Libres (best libero), Honey Myka Sotis, Divine Grace Loquias, Dazzle Apla, Sheena Marie Cario, Shania Verana, Maria Theresa Llanera and Maxine Joyce Tayao.
Coach Johnrel Amora coached the team and he was assisted by Hachaliah Gilbuena.
UM Tagum took the first set but Ateneo bounced back in the second set to level the match. A series of deadlocks and lead changes then ensued in the third set. Both teams were tied at 19-all before UM Tagum rallied to win the third and final sets for the much-needed win.
"I kept on motivating them to minimize error, I think it's the key to the success," Amora told VoxPop Davao in the vernacular.
He also said that they will prepare for the nationals, adding, "We will practice every day to solidify our team and focus on our setter and libero. If we will be able to minimize errors, we have a chance to level-up our rank."
Defending champion AdDU High School, who bowed to AdDU SH (20-25, 25-14, 21-25) in the semifinals, placed third by beating Davao City National High School (DCNHS), 23-25, 25-20, 25-23.
Meanwhile, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey, who was a special guest during the awarding rites, advised players to strive for the best.
"Aspire to become better. Aspire not only to play in Manila but dream of becoming part of the national team and represent the Philippines," Maxey said.