BY ABBY TORALBA
UNIVERSITY of the East has secured the services of prized high school volleyball standouts Casiey Dongallo, Jelaica Gajero, Kizzie Madriaga, and Grace Fernandez of California Academy, along with Claire Castillo of Maryhill College, a move expected to boost the Lady Warriors’ campaign in the 86th UAAP women’s volleyball tournament.
The five spikers made their commitments to play for UE to Strong Group Athletics founder Frank Lao and coach Jerry Yee last Tuesday.
“Having the Cali Babies commit to our team is such a crucial part of our rebuilding process,” Lady Warriors team manager Jacob Lao said.
“We all know what they can bring to the table, and as a team, we are very excited to have them be part of our journey,” he added.
In recent years, California Academy has made some noise in the country’s volleyball scene, having one of the best volleyball high school programs.
The Cal Babies saw action in the PNVF Champions League for Women and finished fifth in 2021 and ruled the PNVF Under-18 Girls’ Tournament and the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League this year.
