On Saturday, two familiar faces from Ateneo de Manila University, Vanie Gandler and Faith Nisperos, converged once again on the court this time for Alas Pilipinas Women in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup.
Their reunion was not merely a nostalgic moment but a catalyst for one of the most electrifying matches witnessed in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup.
For Gandler, a service specialist during the first couple of games in the tournament, this game against Iran was her moment to shine.
Stepping into the starting lineup, she unleashed her skills with finesse, punctuating the Philippine team's resounding victory with nine crucial points, including a formidable display of eight attacks and a service ace.
As the crowd erupted in applause, Gandler modestly attributed her success to the collective effort of the team, emphasizing the vital role of every player, especially the second-stringers, in maintaining the team's strength throughout the tournament.
“I’m just really happy to be able to help the team, to be able to help Eya, cause it's a tournament where we play every day and they get tired too,” said Gandler.
“I know that our role as second-stringers is very important so that they get enough rest, so that everyone is strong especially coming into the semis,” added the 23-year-old, Cignal superstar.
Meanwhile, Nisperos made her presence felt in the latter stages of the game.
Despite being sidelined in the previous matches, her entry into the fray was met with thunderous cheers from the crowd.
With characteristic determination, Nisperos delivered the final blows, securing victory for Alas Pilipinas with a spectacular down-the-line spike and a precise crosscourt hit, igniting a frenzy of jubilation among the home supporters.
For Nisperos, every opportunity to play is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her teammates, coaches, and country.
“Siyempre po I do everything naman po with every chance na I can get, kaya nung pinasok po ako I can think is para sa teammates ko, para sa coaches ko, para sa bayan lalaban ako,” said the 24-year-old Akari hitter.
“We're in our home court kaya ramdam ko po talaga 'yung suporta ng buong bayan, 'yung mga fans very wild kaya sobrang heartwarming po talaga,” she continued.
The bond between Gandler and Nisperos, forged on the courts of Ateneo, has now blossomed into a formidable partnership within the national team.
Their journey from college teammates to stalwarts of Philippine volleyball is a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport.
With their sights set on victory, fueled by the resounding support of the Filipino faithful, they stand ready to overcome any challenge that comes their way.
As Gandler aptly puts it, "I'm happy to be playing with Faith again on the court. We played in college, now in the national team, so it feels great, of course."
