University of Santo Tomas launched its 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge campaign with a statement win, sweeping Ateneo de Manila University 25-19, 25-17, 25-19 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City on Saturday, August 9.

After finishing runner-up twice since the league’s post-pandemic return and missing the podium last year, the Golden Spikers made it clear they are determined to contend for the title this season.

Strong start sets tone

The match began evenly, but UST surged ahead in the opening set through the attacks of senior outside hitters GBoy De Vega and JJ Macam. With a 22-16 lead, middle blocker Trevor Valera delivered back-to-back points before Al Bukharie Sali sealed the set with a powerful right-wing kill.

Ateneo tried to adjust in the second set by bringing in UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ Finals MVP Pao Medino and opposite hitter Karl Reyes, while also rotating setters. However, UST’s relentless attacking and pressure on reception kept the Blue Eagles on the back foot.

Balanced attack and veteran leadership

In the third set, Ateneo cut UST’s lead to 15-17 after a Macam attack error, but the Golden Spikers closed on an 8-4 run. De Vega sealed the victory with the final point. De Vega and Macam finished with 10 points each, while Sali led all scorers with 12. Macam also contributed seven excellent receptions.

Team captain and setter Dux Yambao orchestrated the offense with 20 excellent sets, using middle blockers Valera and Sean Cruz to vary the attack. UST converted 36 of 79 attack attempts.

“Maganda yung naging first game namin kasi yung mga first-year namin na-input namin sa system at na-aadapt nila,” said assistant coach Benjamin Mape, who handled the team in the absence of head coach Odjie Mamon. “Yung mga seniors namin magandang halimbawa sa mga bago at na-ga-guide nila ng tama. Kahit magpaikot kami ng tao, solid pa rin.”

For Ateneo, Rodge Alejo scored nine points after coming in during the third set, while team captain Jian Salarzon added eight points and five digs. The Blue Eagles’ 32 errors proved costly in the loss.

UST will face Letran next on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center, while Ateneo will meet the same Letran squad next Sunday at 5 p.m.