Bulldogs trio raring for new challenges

National University seniors Ces Robles, Jen Nierva and Joyme Cagande are all ready to face a different challenge in the professional league after a memorable stint in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

The three Lady Bulldogs, who have exhausted their playing eligibility, still held their heads high despite falling short of defending the crown from the rampaging De La Salle University in the recently-concluded Season 85 women's volleyball competition.

Playing huge roles in helping NU end a 65-year title drought last year in a perfect season sweep before leading their team back to a second straight championship appearance, the three veterans have drawn interest from different clubs in the Premier Volleyball League.

"We'll take some rest and after that, we'll step on to a higher level (of competition) which is the PVL," the Season 84 Best Libero winner Nierva said.

The trio, however, has yet to decide where they will take their talents in the PVL, which will begin its mid-season tournament Invitational Conference on 29 June.

"Stepping into the next league, I don't know where the Lord will take us but I believe we'll achieve greater heights with the team we will join," Nierva added.

Playing just two full seasons following a knee injury in her debut year back in 2019, Cagande is looking forward to a fruitful pro career.

"I'm prepared mentally and physically for the next chapter (of my career)," Cagande, who played back up to starting setter Lams Lamina, said.

Robles, a power-hitting winger, wanted to spend some time with her family in Iloilo after a grueling collegiate run.

"I have not yet signed with any team. I'm still thinking about it," she said.

"I guess right now I'll just go back home and spend time with my family. I have not been with them for a long time," Robles added. "I'll just take a rest and then plan for my future."

Clubs in the PVL, which is expected to welcome at least two more teams to expand the field to 10, are already actively recruiting top stars from the collegiate ranks to beef up their respective rosters.

Cignal has recently inked a deal with Ateneo de Manila University wing spiker Vanie Gandler just a week after her Blue Eagles teammate Faith Nisperos decided to forgo her last playing year to join Akari.