Outstanding rookie Shaina Nitura has apparently caught the attention of the national team after being included in a “wishlist” from the federation.
Count Shaina Nitura among the budding young stars that have caught the eye of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) after they released a 33-player “wishlist” for three upcoming competitions for Alas Pilipinas.
Currently holding the record for the highest scoring output in a single game in UAAP women’s volleyball, Nitura was among the collegiate stars who made it to the list — with the likes of NU’s Vange Alinsug, and Lams Lamina, and La Salle’s Shevana Laput, and Amie Provido among the new names.
Though the Lady Falcons are currently struggling in UAAP Season 87 with their 3-6 slate, Nitura has been nothing short of impressive.
Nitura introduced herself to the UAAP women's volleyball scene with a 33-point debut against the Ateneo Blue Eagles, tying the previous rookie record. She then followed it up with a new record of 38 points in a losing effort against UP midway through the season.
After their most recent game against Ateneo, where the latter exacted revenge on them, Nitura said that the looming invitation to try out is something that she will use for motivation in her future games, knowing that there are people who believe in her school.
“Grateful po, isa rin po sa dream ko is ma-represent 'yung bansa natin pero siyempre try out pa rin po kasi 'yun so hindi ko pa po talaga sure and kung will talaga ni Lord na mag-national team, why not?” Nitura told reporters.
“Nakaka-boost siya ng confidence and morale, at nagiging motivated ako na galingan pa kasi nakikita niya 'yung potential ko as a player.”
Nitura clarified that she has yet to receive an invite, but also ensured that she remains focused on the task at hand for the Lady Falcons.
“Wala pang nag-message sa akin about try outs pero as of now, fino-focus-an ko talaga ang season.” said Nitura.
As for who she’s looking forward to joining in the national team if she has the chance, Nitura is deeming the opportunity as an opportune time to be a “sponge” as she plays with older, more experienced players, especially as a rookie in the collegiate scene.
“Lahat po sila [gusto ko makasama] kasi lahat sila veterans and alam kong maraming matututunan mula sa kanilang lahat.” she said.
When it comes to her fellow UAAP stars, Nitura is also willing to put rivalries aside when it comes to the national team as they hopefully push themselves to be better for the sake of Alas Pilipinas.
“Siyempre, mga veterans na rin sila sa UAAP so I think marami akong matututunan [sa kanila]. Marami rin silang maipapayo in playing so looking forward talaga sa kanila.” she said.
The PNVF wishlist is slated to become the backbone of Alas Pilipinas head coach’s Jorge de Brito’s lineup for the AVC Challenge Cup, the SEA V.League, and the Southeast Asian Games all of which are slated for the rest of the year.