Heart Villaflores has been crucial in Arellano University's campaign in NCAA Season 100 so far.
After a loss to De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in its campaign opener, Arellano University buckled up and recovered in the next two games to claim a 2-1 record after two weeks of action.
In the Lady Chiefs' first win against Lyceum of the Philippines University, the second-year Villaflores had a team-high of 18 points, which was followed by a 15-point outing as Arellano defeated San Beda University.
For the 19-year old outside hitter, what matters most for her is what she can contribute to the team.
"Kailangan maging useful ako sa team, no matter what mangyari or anong posisyon ibigay sa akin, gusto ko makapag-ambag ako sa team nang maganda," Villaflores said to GMA News Online.
With her young career flourishing, Villaflores has a lot to be thankful for to Arellano.
The 5-foot-8 standout said she was supposed to stop playing competitive volleyball as she planned to take other degrees such as nursing or medical technology.
However, a one day league changed Villaflores' career trajectory.
"Blessing in disguise po 'yun kasi gusto ko mag-stop para mag-aral na lang kasi 'the one that got away' ko yung course na nursing or medtech," Villaflores shared.
"Dapat mag-focus na lang ako doon pero by God's grace, [nandito pa rin]," said the psychology student.
Villaflores studied at Georgia International Academy in Antipolo then moved to Arellano University for her senior high years.
"Nung Grade 12 po, tapos na [ang] pandemic, nagyaya 'yung teammates ko na mag-ODL (one day league) sa Antipolo, club team kami. Nandun si Coach Obet [Javier], tinanong niya 'Saan ka nag-aaral?'"
"'[Sabi ko] sa Arellano. 'Ay sakto, maglaro ka na.' Ganun ako nakuha," Villaflores recalled.
Eventually, Villaflores found her way on Arellano's roster and is now among the Lady Chiefs' reliables on the taraflex.
The Arellano outside hitter said she is also happy to have still pursued volleyball, but she remains open to whatever the future might bring to her.
"Happy naman ako kasi siyempre, hobby ko [ito] na nag-progress," she said.
—GMA Integrated News
