From swag to sisterhood.
NU Lady Bulldogs' Bella Belen and De La Salle Lady Spikers' Angel Canino showed nothing but love and appreciation for each other off the court after UAAP Season 85. After all, they're in a league of their own as Rookie-MVPs and now as Volleyball Players of the Year by the Collegiate Press Corps.
"This means [a lot] to me as a girl, as a woman, kasi empowerment 'to sa'min," Canino told One Sports.
"Mas natutuwa ako kasi parang nare-recognize kami as a woman, na may kaya [para] sa sarili namin."
Canino was hailed as the 2023 Volleyball Player of the Year, while Bella was named for the 2022 edition. The two volleybelles have made UAAP history with consecutive UAAP Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player titles in Season 84 and Season 85.
"Sobrang honored po kami. Hindi po namin in-expect 'yung award na 'to," Belen told One Sports. "Kami 'yung napansin, sa'min binigay."
"Very thankful kami kasi nakikita nila kami. Na-a-appreciate nila kung ano yung ginagawa namin."
@onesportsphl
Rookie-MVPs #BellaBelen and #AngelCanino were recently named Volleyball Player of the Year for 2022 and 2023 respectively by the Collegiate Press Corps! #UAAPSeason85 #RiseAsOne #CollegiatePCAwards
? original sound - OneSportsPHL
Canino and Belen are also proving to be model athletes, who show they can serve the swag on the court.
And immediately become sisters after the competition is done.
Now, that's how you Rise As One.