In this edition of Off The Record, Adamson super rookie Shaina Nitura talks about her striking signature goggles and how they help her perform on the court.
Adamson rookie-captain Shaina Nitura wasted no time making an impact in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.
In a sensational introduction, Nitura led the Lady Falcons in a thrilling five-set battle against the Ateneo Blue Eagles, with the former high school MVP making history as well by setting a new UAAP rookie record of 33 points.
[ALSO READ: Secret weapon?: Super rookie Shaina Nitura reveals her vision for Adamson]
But beyond Shaina’s record-breaking performance, one thing also caught everyone’s attention—her signature goggles.
More than just a style statement, they’re a game essential, helping her to actually see the court to deliver powerful plays.
In this edition of Off The Record, Shaina shares the story behind her specialized eyewear and how they help her shine on the court.
(Shaina Nitura has the game to make her a powerhouse, but she also has the look that can make her iconic)
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One Sports: Shaina, when did you realize you had poor eyesight?
Shaina Nitura: Alam ko na pong malabo na agad ‘yong mata ko noong bata pa lang po ako pero meron lang po ako ‘yong pang-everyday na glasses. Pero kapag naglalaro po ako, hindi po ako naka-glasses kaya lumala po siya.
Noong una ko rin pong paglalaro, ang una ko pong gamit, goggles din po pero red po siya. Tapos Grade 8 po ata ako nung nag-start ako mag-goggles.
Despite having poor eyesight, Shaina refuses to let it hinder her game. Her goggles have become an essential part of her volleyball journey, allowing her to play at her best.
When asked about the most important item she needs on the court, she had a clear answer.
OS: What is the most important item you need when playing?
Shaina: Parang given po talaga ito [goggles] na hindi mawawala [sa essentials] kasi kapag wala po ito, hindi po ako makakakita.
(Shaina Nitura's goggles are more than just a fashion statement, they are a true essential for the Adamson super rookie)
OS: Are your goggles specialized?
Shaina: Goggles po siya then ‘yong lente ko po siya. Naka-contact lens po ako dati eh, pero irritated na po ‘yong eyes ko sa contact lens. Possible po na ma-infect na po siya. Delikado po, ‘wag naman po sanang mabulag ang tao, mas safe po ‘to so as much as possible, ito po muna kaya kong gamitin.
Shaina also revealed her eye grade, sharing that her right eye is at 350 while her left is at 250.
Now a true staple of her young career, the googles go wherever Shaina is, even during Adamson’s intense one-week training camp in Taiwan.
And while getting hit is an occasional part of the game, Shaina assures that her eyewear can take the impact.
OS: Do you ever feel scared when it gets hit?
Shaina: Natamaan na po ako once sa tuneup namin sa Akari [Chargers] ni ate Faith [Nisperos] po. Blockings po, eh. Tumama po. Okay naman po siya, durable naman po.
OS: Do you wear different goggles when you’re not training?
Shaina: Yes, may iba po. Ito po [goggles], pang-games lang talaga.