NATIONAL University libero Pearl Denura has decided to end her collegiate career after being part of two Lady Bulldogs championship teams in the UAAP women’s volleyball tournament.

Denura, who gave quality numbers of 5-of-11 excellent receptions and three digs in NU’s title-clinching four-set win over University of Santo Tomas in Game 2 of the Finals to complete its redemption season, was a reliable back-up to starting liberos Jen Nierva and Shaira Jardio.

Describing herself as a “Junior Pep squad and Dancing Libero”, Denura was also a part of the Lady Bulldogs squad that ended a 65-year-old championship drought in 2022.

“First of all, I thank God for giving me these opportunities. 3 Championship titles in a year, I am so blessed and grateful,” said Denura, crediting two preseason crowns (Unigames and Shakey’s Super League) the Lady Bulldogs won prior to the UAAP.

“Thank you to my teammates, our coaches, and managers who have helped mold me into the champion I am today. The NU community, and the Garapata Nation for the love and support.

“The five long years I spent here in NU was an adventurous roller coaster ride, with endless incomparable highs and devastating lows and yet here I still stand. My journey in UAAP might have come to an end but a piece of my heart will always remain,” she added.

There is no need to worry for the Lady Bulldogs despite Denura’s departure, as IC Cepada, NUNS first-choice libero, has earlier committed to play for the Jhocson-based squad for Season 87 to support Jardio.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Theodore P. Jurado