By Mary Ann Marcellana

Spectators were at the edge of their seats as the JCSGO Christian Academy (JCA) Men’s Volleyball Team emerged victorious in the highly anticipated “Battle of the Champions” of the Athletic Association of Private Schools (AAPS) at the Capitol Hills Christian School yesterday, January 24.

𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹

The team secured the ticket to the final despite a tightly contested match against the School of Saint Anthony Quezon City (SSAQC), 19-25, 25-23, 25-21.

The initial encounter proved challenging as SSAQC took an early lead, but JCA found their rhythm in the subsequent set, gradually gaining momentum.

While SSAQC initially dominated the third set, 6-15, JCA demonstrated unwavering resilience with an impressive 12-0 run, with the help of Aikee Azares’ service aces, that closed the gap with the opposing team and secured a decisive victory for JCA, 25-23.

Daniel Sunga made a remarkable contribution to the team’s score by scoring a total of 10 points, which included five blocks and five attacks. Kent Trabaco and Azares also played crucial roles by adding 9 points each to the team’s final tally.

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽

JCA later faced Trinity University of Asia (TUA) in the finals as the boys in blue took home the title, 25-22, 29-31, 25-20, 25-16.

JCA surged ahead in the first set with a 6-1 run, clinching the initial set. However, TUA mounted a comeback in the second set, leveling the score.

Undeterred, JCA launched into the third set with a commanding 7-0 run, claiming victory and setting the stage for a heated fourth set.

The intensity escalated in the middle of the fourth set as both teams fiercely contested each point, and JCA gradually regained their momentum, ultimately sealing the title as champions.

Kent Traboco spearheaded the game, showcasing his remarkable attacking prowess with 14 points. Contributing to the team’s success, Daniel Sunga secured 13 points, Marc Jagto added 11 points, John Marcus Cortez contributed 9 points, and Charles Soriano chipped in with seven points.

Henry Ramirez