MU Cardinals Tennis Teams net impressive bid in NCAA 100 Soft Tennis

Article by: Alexandra Isabelle G. Delavin

Graphics by: Albert Dylan D. David and Crismhil S. Anselmo

Photo by: Luis Iñigo A. Lava

Still riding high after their recent NCAA spell, the Mapúa Cardinals Tennis teams launched impressive net plays and calculated serves to clinch second runner-up and fourth place finishes in the juniors’ and men's divisions of the NCAA Soft Tennis Tournament, respectively.

Over the course of the week-long tournament, a series of games marked by wit, precision, and speed took place, showcasing the red and gold squad’s quick court coverage from April 7 to 14 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

While Team Captain Antonio “Al” S. Quiza admitted that they had a shorter time to rally in practice for the Soft Tennis battle, they proved that they can still smash expectations over the net. Barely two weeks after their lawn tennis stint, MU's home team immediately got back on the court and served up momentum on April 7.

The red and gold squad launched a 3-3 elims run, backed by wins against netters from Emilio Aguinaldo College (2-1), San Sebastian College-Recoletos (2-1), and Colegio de San Juan de Letran (3-0). The men's team then arranged a semifinals match against the University of Perpetual Help System team. However, a 0-3 showing ultimately led them to the Battle for Third against De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where they settled for third runner-up spot on April 14.

Meanwhile, the juniors team clinched a much-needed victory against SSC-R in the two elims rounds. Shortly after, they faced the same squad in the battle for bronze. Asserting dominance for the third time in a row, the home team took down the Recto contenders to rise in the podium as the second runner-up.

During the red and gold’s short stay in the women’s division, Mapúa netter Shaira Silva also brought glory after securing the Rookie of the Year plum, proving she can go head-to-head with the league’s best.

Following a commendable run in their final playing year, Al Quiza and Aldwyn Rosales will be bowing out of the collegiate scene. Still, Quiza acknowledges this part of the journey:

"It's a natural part of collegiate sports for players to graduate and new talents to emerge. We'll likely see a mix of returning players who will take on more prominent roles and some fresh faces joining the Cardinals' roster."

With faith in the team's future, the captain believes that more is in store for the squad as they set their sights on a chance to compete in the PCA Open Entry. The Cardinals will also look out for more local tournaments while focusing on developing their skills for the next season.