In celebration of Women's Month, DLSU’s Angel Canino pays tribute to former Lady Spiker turned Chery Tiggo star Ara Galang, whom she admires as a guiding light in her athletic journey.
In the world of sports, inspiration often comes from those who have paved the way, endured struggles, and emerged stronger.
For reigning UAAP MVP Angel Canino, that person is none other than former DLSU Lady Spiker and now Chery Tiggo star, Ara Galang.
“Siya talaga ‘yong unang pumasok sa isip ko,” Canino shared, emphasizing how Galang’s journey has become a beacon of perseverance and strength.
The admiration stems not only from their shared La Salle roots but also from their parallel experiences with adversity.
Both Canino and Galang have faced injuries that tested their resilience.
In 2015, during the UAAP women’s volleyball finals, Galang—one of the league’s brightest stars at the time—suffered devastating injuries, including ACL and MCL tears, as well as medial meniscus and knee bone damage.
Despite being sidelined, she showed up in full uniform, sitting with her teammates and proving that leadership and presence extend beyond the court.
Fast forward to UAAP Season 86, Canino found herself in a similar situation.
A non-volleyball-related right arm injury cast uncertainty over her campaign. Like Galang, she had to navigate the pain of being unable to play, a challenge that only deepened her respect for the former Lady Spiker.
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“All throughout ng pinagdaanan niya, bilang babae, nando’n siya ngayon sa pro, pinapakita pa rin kung anong kaya niya, kahit ang dami niya nang pinagdaanan,” Canino reflected.
Now, in UAAP Season 87, Canino has fully healed, and La Salle is maintaining a steady run in the conference.
Through it all, her admiration for Galang has remained strong.
“Gusto ko lang din sigurong maging Ate Ara. Naging inspiration si Ate Ara sa akin kung paano siya katalino maglaro, kung paano niya dinadala ‘yong buhay niya, kung gaano kasimple, and kung makikita ko siyang masaya sa buhay niya.”
As Women’s Month is celebrated, Canino’s tribute to Galang highlights more than just athletic excellence—it underscores the power of female athletes uplifting and inspiring one another.
In a sport often defined by statistics and accolades, it is the stories of resilience and sisterhood that leave the greatest impact.