REIGNING NCAA champion College of St. Benilde made short work of Parañaque City yesterday 25-6, 25-25-20, 25-17 as the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Challenge Cup got going at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The Lady Blazers, who swept the last two NCAA seasons, met little resistance in finishing off their foes in only 65 minutes for a roaring start in Pool A of the tournament supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, PLDT, Rebisco, Akari, Foton and CBPI.
Ace middle blocker Zamantha Nolasco anchored St. Benilde’s win, with solid support coming from Wielyn Estoque and Corrine Apostol.
Colegio de San Juan de Letran and San Beda U also came away with impressive debut wins in the women’s division featuring 16 teams for the former Champions League of the PNVF headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
The Lady Knights fended off the Rizal Technological University-Basilan, 25-22, 25-11, 22-25, 25-13, in Pool C while the Lady Red Spikers trounced La Salle-Dasmarinas, 25-19, 25-17, 25-16, in Pool D.
Action continues today at the same venue starting with the men’s play, consisting of 20 squads.