By: Ma. Sabine Mikaela Valdez (DLSZ 2026)
Angel Cenizal (DLSZ 2026), a homegrown athlete and the libero for the De La Salle Santiago Zobel (DLSZ) High School Volleyball team, proved that hard work, determination, and passion are the keys to achieving your goals even when faced with challenges and adversities. Despite her team finishing 5th place in the UAAP, she exceeded expectations by winning the Best Libero award for the UAAP and MVP (Most Valuable Player) for the WNCAA. These awards were not just proof of her skills but also her passion for the sport, proving that heart and grit will help you overcome.
From the beginning, Angel faced challenges. There were moments of self-doubt, she questioned whether she was truly ready to take on the role of the first libero. The pressures of academics, expectations from others, and even her own high standards made the journey even harder. However, she refused to let these define her. Instead, she pushed forward, finding strength in her love for the game and the unwavering support of her family, coaches, and teammates.
Angel is the definition of dedication. Volleyball is not just a sport for her, it is a way of life. She eats, breathes, and sleeps the game. At home, she dedicates extra hours to training and practicing with her father, Jon, and her sister, Ayen. She rewatches every match, analyzing her movements and finding ways to improve both physically and mentally. She would seek tips from her coaches, and her parents, and of course mindful of and correct her own mistakes. Angel not only seeks improvement for herself but also for the team, to become smarter and stronger. Doing this is what helped Angel improve and more importantly, stand out.
Behind every great athlete is a support system that lifts them up, and for Angel, her family played a crucial role. Her parents, RJ and Jon, along with her siblings Ayen and Juanie, stood by her every step of the way. Her older brother, Kuya Josh, who played volleyball back in 2015, served as one of her greatest inspirations, motivating her to keep going.
At the same time, Angel herself became an inspiration for her younger siblings, Ayen ( Ayen won the award of Best Setter in the WNCAA Midgets Division) and Juanie, showing them the power of hard work and dedication. Through her journey, she has not only lifted herself but also those around her, setting an example of being resilient and determined.
Aside from her family, Angel found unwavering support in the Sports Development Office (SDO) led by Mr. Gabriel Mendoza, PT Charlene Balquin, and Mr. Leo Jabique who continued to cheer her on through every match. And of course, her teammates played an integral role in her journey, pushing her to be her best and standing by her side through the highs and lows of the season.
While Angel did shine, she never lost sight of the bigger picture which was her team. Her dedication was not just about personal success; it was about giving her best for her teammates. Even finishing in 5th place in the UAAP, she focused on playing for the team, proving that it is not just about winning—it’s about perseverance, teamwork, and playing with heart. Her team was more than just players, they were family. They pushed each other, celebrated victories together, and learned from defeats. Angel’s success was a shared triumph, a reflection of the collective effort that made the team stronger.
Winning the Best Libero Award is more than just a title—it is the result of all the blood, sweat, and tears Angel put into her journey. It is a testament to her determination and passion allowing her to overcome everything. Angel proved that awards are not just for those at the top of the standings but for those who give their all and play with their heart. Angel Cenizal’s story is a reminder to believe in yourself. She serves as an inspiration not only to liberos but to her team, and all athletes to stay steadfast as they pursue their dreams.
The team’s success would not have been possible without the guidance and support of Coach Jeremiah Monreal, Coach Justin Alonzo, and Coach Feliciano Panteleon. They played a meaningful role in the team throughout the season, teaching them valuable skills on and off the court.
Animo La Salle!