Champions once again, the DLSU Women’s Football Team will look to preserve their two-year reign in UAAP Women’s Football in Season 81. As it is a university league, players can only participate for so long. When one student’s time comes, another one is set to fill the void.
Last year’s winning team saw the likes of Kyla Inquig and Nicole Andaya depart DLSU upon the conclusion of their studies. It opened up slots for younger players, coming from high school, eager to become champions like those before them.
One rookie who has already made an immediate impact is Rocelle Maria “Maye” Mendaño. The Sports Management major bravely took the spot kick that cushioned her team’s lead against Ateneo in their first game of the season.
GoArchers caught up with the midfielder from Tondo, Manila to talk about her bright start and her promising future in Taft Avenue.
How does it feel after playing your first game in the UAAP?
Syempre first game nandoon pa ‘yung kaba. UAAP team din yung kalaban. Wala pa yung laro ko. Naninibago pa ako. At saka ‘yung field, parang ang bigat ng katawan ko.
How was it scoring your first goal in the UAAP?
Nakadagdag siya sa confidence sa laro ko.
What do you think you should work on to improve this season?
I need my 100% sa loob and next time siguro ‘yung kaba tanggalin.
What are your personal objectives this year?
My objectives this year are to get the 3rd uaap championship and to give our seniors a sweet exit.
How are you adjusting to life as a rookie and how are you contributing to the team on and off the pitch?
As a rookie, I have to take the responsibilities and challenges on and off the pitch which it will make me stronger and will give all my best to contribute to the team
How is the team handling the pressure of winning a third straight championship? Is it the main goal for this season?
Our seniors put a lot of pressure. Dapat every training we give our best even yung small drill lang dapat all out so para pagdating sa game yung main goal namin is to win every game and lalo na the championship.
Lastly, what’s your message to the Lasallian Community?
For the Lasallian community, thank you for supporting women’s football. ANIMO!!!
Maye and the rest of the DLSU Women’s Football Team are counting on your support. Catch them in their next game tomorrow against UST at Circulo Verde Pitch in Quezon City. Kickoff is set at 1 pm.