When men’s volleyball returned to the NCAA in 2023 following the pandemic, Barbie San Andres quickly drew attention, not only for strong performances on the court, but also for the support from friends and loved ones.
At one point, San Andres’ supporters even put up an unconventional tarpaulin — a humorous spin on the typically more somber format often seen in public displays — highlighting the early surge of support.
Fast forward to 2026, and as San Andres’ game continued to grow, so did the crowd behind them.
Rizal Memorial Stadium was nearly filled during Mapua’s Game 3 finals clash against De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, reflecting the outside hitter's rising profile.
That unwavering support from friends, loved ones, and the Mapua community has meant more than enough for San Andres.
“Thankful po kasi at first, hindi ko naman in-expect na ganon karami ‘yung susuporta sa akin sa NCAA,” San Andres told GMA News Online, revealing that another school offered him to transfer back in his second playing year, but he chose to stay with Mapua.
“Mas pinili ko ‘yung Mapua and NCAA kasi gusto ko, dito ako nagsimula, dito ako magtatapos.”
Now that San Andres’ collegiate run with Mapua has come to an end, the Mapua team captain expressed gratitude for what the Cardinals achieved—especially after a roller-coaster stretch that saw the team reach the Final Four last year before dropping to the battle for third, and then mount a remarkable run this season.
Mapua had to overcome higher-ranked San Beda University in the quarterfinals despite a twice-to-beat disadvantage, before dethroning defending champion Arellano University in the semifinals to advance to the finals.
“Kasi ‘yung quarterfinals pa lang na game, one, twice to beat 'yung Beda. So iniisip ko na baka last game ko na yun [pero] hindi, nabigay sa akin hanggang dito. So ngayon, habang naglalaro ako, kahit ano mangyari, iniisip ko na sobrang blessing pa rin 'yung binigay na umabot ako dito.”
Looking ahead, San Andres believes the Cardinals will come back stronger next season.
“Ang dami pong nagre-residency na hindi po naka-line up ngayon. Mas malakas ‘yung team next year. Alam ko babawi sila.”
—GMA News
