Former Nigeria U20 player, Aisha Bello in her first season has guided National University Lady Bulldogs to the final of the Shakey’s Super League in the Philippines.
The defending league champion defeated Adamson University Lady Falcon 3-0 (26-13, 26-24, 25-20) in the first semi finals match on Sunday.
The unbeaten NU Bulldogs take on University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses in the final on November 10th.
The former Kwara VC player told www.aclsports.com that she utilized an opportunity presented to her when some of her teammates sustained injuries during the league.
Aisha Bello said she contributed her own quota to the team as a Middle Player and bonded with her teammates which went beyond the court.
She said, “First of all, it is a blessing and I thank God for giving me the opportunity because some of my teammates have injuries and that’s why the coaching crew replaced them with other players, and I had always dreamt of playing on a big team.
“When I received the opportunity to join the lineup in the Shakeys Super League in the Philippines, I couldn’t believe my luck. With my skills and dedication, I quickly made a name for myself in the league.
“As the season progressed, my team continued to dominate, winning match after match. My role as a middle player became more evident, and I felt immense pride in my contribution to the team’s success. I bonded with her teammates, forging friendships that went beyond the court”.
The former NAF Rocket player said her first game in the colours of NU Bulldogs was an unforgettable experience.
Aisha Bello explained that she trained tirelessly, pushing herself beyond limits and striving to improve every aspect of her game
The former Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) player said, “My first game with NU Lady’s Bulldog was an unforgettable experience that would forever hold a special place in my heart, reaffirming my passion for the sport.
“I desire to continue excelling in my volleyball career, even though is never easy for me as a foreign player but i still refuse to give up because I’m almost there and my belief is very strong .
“Throughout the season, my determination never wavered. I trained tirelessly, pushing myself beyond my limits and striving to improve every aspect of my game. I thank God my hard work paid off as my team secured the spot to the final of the Shakeys super league.
“The crowd cheered for me and my teammates, and I felt a newfound confidence within myself and trust in her teammates”, she told www.aclsports.com
Bello believe NU Bulldogs can retain the title against rookies, University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses.
She said, “I believed in the capabilities and potential of the team to lift the Shakeys Super League title again. Throughout the season, I and my teammates had showcased our skills, determination, and teamwork, which had led us to the final of the tournament.
“The strong performance and chemistry exhibited by the team gave me confidence that we had what it takes to triumph in the final match.
“I had witnessed the relentless effort we had put in during practices, the hours of strategizing and analyzing opponents’ gameplay, and the unyielding commitment to improving our skills. I believed that these collective efforts would bear fruit when it mattered the most”.