Tay Tung defends title in JGM volley tilt

The volleyball team of Bacolod Tay Tung High School (BTTHS) bagged their fourth straight title in the 5th JGM Finance Corporation U-17 Girls Invitational Volleyball Tournament at the BTTHS covered court, May 19, 2019.

BTTHS earned their fourth crown at the expense of California Academy, 25-22, 25-12, 25-14.

Eventual MVP Alyssa Bertolano led the undefeated Tay Tung – A.

En route to the finals, they dominated their sister team BTTHS-B in the semifinals, 25-15, 25-13 while California defeated La Carlota City in the other semis clash.

Tay Tung B, meanwhile, survived the tough defense of La Carlota in the battle for third, 25-15, 17-25, 25-14.

Organizer Jose Montalbo said the tournament helped in the development of volleyball in the province, particularly for public schools and different localities.

In fact, three players from Tay Tung B are moving up to the juniors team this year.

“I’m happy that Tay Tung has become one of the seedbeds of volleyball talents for the UAAP. This year, we have another player going to University of the Philippines – libero Jeanny Padilla. I’m close with UP because they understand our needs and protected our players and the school,” Montalbo added.

Montalbo, who is currently in Davao City for the National PRISAA 2019, said UP is also working on getting the services of Bertolano and Joan Monares as new additions to their growing team.

To recall, UP Lady Maroons acquired Ilongga setter Marianne Sotomil.

Meanwhile, UP Lady Maroons head coach Godfrey Okomu said the tournament was a good avenue to discover and develop volleyball talents.

“I believe that there are lots of talents in Bacolod and Negros. Our friendship with Sir Montalbo and Tay Tung give us this hope to get our needed players. We are happy that we are given that first priority. I believe that the relationship between Tay Tung and UP will grow,” he added.