Though grieving, University of the Philippines stalwart Niña Ytang is pressing forward for the Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 86, as a way to honor her late mother.
For University of the Philippines middle blocker Niña Ytang, every volleyball game is a tribute to her late mother.
Ytang made her return to the fold of the Fighting Maroons versus the Ateneo Lady Eagles in round 2 of UAAP Season 86 on Sunday. This, after missing three matches to grieve the passing of her mom, Carmen Ytang.
Though it resulted in a deflating, straight-set loss, Ytang, who finished with five points, is glad to be back in action, channeling her emotions on the court.
"Ide-dedicate ko talaga lahat, lahat. Kahit before pa po, lahat ng ginagawa ko siya 'yung dahilan. Kahit ngayon na wala na po siya, siya pa rin 'yung dahilan," she shared.
"Natutuwa po ako na nakabalik ako, although may nangyaring hindi maganda pero focus lang ako sa positive, move on lang."
Though the pain lingers, the reigning UAAP Best Middle Blocker finds solace in her team and the entire UP community, reminding her that even in the most trying of times, she was never alone.
"Sobrang na-touch po ako sa ginawa nila lalo na may pa-wristbands. Kahit po wala ako they always give some space na andiyan ako. Kahit invisible ako andiyan pa rin ako," she bared.
The Fighting Maroons even put up a fundraising drive to provide financial aid to the bereaved Ytang family.
"So parang na-touch po ako kaya na-feel ko talaga pagmamahal nila. So sobrang thankful ako sa teammates ko at lalong lalo na po sa UP."
Through the sport she loves, Ytang has found a way to keep her beloved mother's spirit alive.
And needless to say, the fight continues for the grieving Fighting Maroon.
"Pagpapatuloy ko. Alam ko matutuwa siya, magiging proud siya kasi tinuloy ko 'yung pangarap naming dalawa," she said.