National University’s (NU) dominance in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament is paying dividends with five Lady Bulldogs earning spots in the 33-woman Alas Pilipinas pool.

At the heart of this recognition is setter Lams Lamina, whose steady playmaking has been instrumental in NU’s success. Now, she has the rare opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business — Jia de Guzman.

‘Since high school, we’ve been trained to compete at a high level. Now that we’re in the seniors’ division, we’ll be even more challenged.’

Lamina, along with teammates Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, Vange Alinsug, and Arah Panique, made the cut for the initial pool, a testament to NU’s formidable volleyball program.

Despite her stellar playmaking, Lamina admitted she was taken aback by the national team call-up.

“I was shocked. I didn’t expect to be part of the wish list, but maybe they saw potential in me,” the 21-year-old setter said after contributing 30 excellent sets in their win against Far Eastern University (FEU) on 30 March.

More than the honor of being named to the pool, Lamina is eager for the chance to train with de Guzman, the country’s premier setter and a longtime national team mainstay.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Ate Jia because I know I’ll learn a lot, and not just from her but also from the other setters. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”

NU’s offensive juggernaut Alyssa Solomon, who dropped 30 points against FEU, believes their national team selection highlights the school’s commitment to player development.

“Since high school, we’ve been trained to compete at a high level. Now that we’re in the seniors’ division, we’ll be even more challenged,” Solomon said.

With a strong NU presence in Alas Pilipinas, the Lady Bulldogs are poised to carry their chemistry onto the national stage. Solomon sees this as a chance to push each other further.

“I’m really happy that they’re there. With our core intact, we’ll push each other even more. We’ll fight for our spots on the team,” she added.

For first-time national team hopefuls like Lamina, Solomon kept her advice simple.

“Always give your best when you step on the court,” she said.