Manila: University of Santo Tomas (UST) ended National University’s (NU) reign with a 3-0 sweep in the deciding match of the UAAP Season 87 women’s tennis finals at Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, NU, champion the previous three seasons, won Game 1 (3-1) but UST bounced back in Game 2 (3-1). UST coach Dennis Sta. Cruz expressed his satisfaction, stating, “So proud, so happy for the team.” He emphasized their strategy to secure at least two singles matches in the final game, noting that they managed to clinch three without needing to play doubles.
Sta. Cruz highlighted the promising future of the team, mentioning that many players are still in their early years. He expressed hope that this championship signals the start of a successful era for UST.
Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) Mica Emana defeated Danna Abad, 7-5, 4-6, 6-2, helping the Tigresses end a seven-season drought to claim their eighth championship overall. Emana, who also earned the Rookie of the Year title, attributed her success to the support and trust of her coaches and teammates.
Coach Sta. Cruz praised Emana’s performance throughout the finals, noting her significant development and contributions in the crucial matches. He commended her maturity and improvements since the beginning of the season.
The Tigresses gained an early advantage with Patricia Lim’s victory over Julia Carvajal, 6-4, 6-1. Lim reflected on the team’s journey from winning bronze in Season 85, silver in Season 86, to finally securing gold this season, attributing the success to a collective effort.
Lim and fellow senior Debbie Gom-os aimed to make their last season memorable, with Gom-os emphasizing a fearless and no-regret approach. UST extended their lead with Kaye Emana’s win over JM Carcueva, 6-2, 7-5, which was part of their strategic plan considering NU’s weakened lineup due to Jasmine Jaran’s injury.
Kaye Emana shared the season MVP honors with University of the Philippines’ Jufe Cocoy and expressed joy for the graduating players securing a championship before leaving the team.
