Eya Laure's UST departure enough to make grown men cry

Tears drowned out España Boulevard on Thursday night when homegrown talent Eya Laure announced she will forgo her final playing year in the UAAP.

In an emotional post, the UST Golden Tigresses captain shared the heartbreaking news, while also thanking and apologizing to the Thomasian community for "failing to give the championship you (UST community) deserve."

Although it didn't come as a surprise, the impact of Laure's decision was still enough to rattle the UST fanbase. After all, it's going to be weird seeing the Queen Tigress wear a different uniform following a legendary 12-year career with UST (she literally spent half of her life wearing the white, black, gold jersey).

One supporter said, "there's no preparation for this kind of hurt."

to imee hernandez and eya laure, i guess there's no preparation enough for this kind of hurt. this for sure will take time to process, but all i can say for now is a whole-hearted thank you. 🤍 https://t.co/ZKITce6JDT

— renzo (@renzosays_) May 25, 2023

No one was clearly ready.

I thought I was ready. Eya! You really made a grown man cry 😭😭😭 I love you so much @eyalaureee
You've done so much, its us who should say thank you! I don't even know how we could ever give back to you 💛💛💛💛 Godbless in the Pros! Forever the Queen Tigress Eya Laure. https://t.co/8XmzakuCnZ

— heinz (@heinzatlas) May 25, 2023

Laure clearly is a beloved figure in the community.

I love you so much, Eya Laure! 💛 You're one of the reasons why I'm a volleyball fan, a UST fan. 🫶 Ikaw din yung isa sa mga bilang na dahilan ba't gusto ko pa lumaban at ayaw ko pang mag-give up sa life. 💛

— Ho (@Ho77789) May 25, 2023

One fan can't help but point out what could have been if the pandemic didn't affect Laure's collegiate career.

Bitin na bitin naman sa Imee Hernandez at Eya Laure in the UAAP! 🥺 What if hindi nagkapandemya ano? Can’t wait to see you two in the pros! 🐯💛

— Drew (@AngHaraya) May 25, 2023

Aside from Laure, UST will face next season without middle blocker Imee Hernandez, who is also a product of the school's grassroots program.