Demonstrating teamwork, discipline, and unwavering spirit, the University of Batangas Lipa City (UBLC) Volleyball Teams achieved remarkable success in the Batangas Universities, Schools, and Colleges Athletic Association (BUSCAA) Season 26 held from October 3 to 17, 2025, at the UBBC Millennium Gym and St. Bridget College, Batangas City.
Guided by Head Coach Rey Angelo U. Africa and Assistant Coach John Cleo P. Montero, the UB Lipa Men’s Volleyball Team secured an impressive 1st Runner-up finish, showcasing consistency and strategic play throughout the tournament. Their commendable performance also led to individual recognition for standout players Juzl Dean R. Andres, a 4th Year BS Industrial Engineering student, and Lauren Sidney M. Lina, a 3rd Year BS Information Technology student – both named to the Mythical 6 for their outstanding athletic prowess and leadership on the court.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Juzl Dean R. Andres, the team’s middle blocker, shared that the road to success required months of preparation and unwavering discipline. “It took us months to prepare for this league. We focused on our defense and offense, on how to be strong as one inside the court, and on maintaining discipline as student-athletes,” he said. “Every team in BUSCAA is challenging to beat, but because of our determination and hard work, we came a long way and made it to the championship round,” he added.
For Andres, who is set to graduate this year, the experience holds a special place in his athletic career. “I am proud of what my team and I achieved this season. As a graduating student, I’m ending my BUSCAA chapter in a memorable way by becoming 1st runner-up and part of the prestigious mythical 6. We represented the school with pride and dignity,” he expressed. He also left an inspiring message for fellow UBians: “To my fellow UBians aspiring to excel in sports or other fields, just do everything you love with passion and never stop learning and improving.”
The UB Lipa Women’s Volleyball Team, also under the guidance of Coach Africa and Coach Montero, exhibited resilience and skill, earning the 3rd Runner-up spot in their division. Their strong showing reflected the team’s commitment to continuous improvement and competitive spirit, hallmarks of the UB Lipa sports community.
Meanwhile, under a coaching rotation that saw Coach Montero taking the lead and Coach Africa as assistant, the High School Department’s Volleyball Teams also excelled in their respective categories. The Volleyball Girls Team captured the 1st Runner-up title, while the Volleyball Boys Team secured 3rd Runner-up, marking another milestone for the University’s developing athletes.
Adding to the triumph, two young UB athletes, Sheine Riafel L. Ballena (Grade 12 – ABM Alfredo Obviar) and Gwyneth Nizel O. Manguiat (Grade 11 – ABM Juan Javier), were named to the Mythical 6, a recognition reserved for the league’s most outstanding players who displayed excellence in performance, sportsmanship, and dedication.
The success of UBLC’s volleyball contingents in BUSCAA Season 26 stands as a testament to the University’s steadfast commitment to holistic student development by cultivating academic excellence, athletic growth, teamwork, and character formation. Through their remarkable performances, the teams have once again brought honor to the UB community, further strengthening the University’s reputation as a center of excellence in both education and sports.