Sports enthusiasts know Cherry Ann Rondina as the UST Golden Tigresses volleyball team captain who poured all her heart in bringing her school into glory in the recently concluded UAAP ’81 Women’s Volleyball Tournament. Although, the championship trophy has slipped away from the UST once again, others say Cherry Ann’s golden MVP win and the first finals game in eight years were more than enough.
Outside the court, she is still the simple girl who hails from Cebu and whose nickname, “Sisi”, was taken from a variety of a shellfish she loves eating way back home. “Sa Cebu, yung maliliit na talaba na nakadikit sa bato o kahoy, sisi po ang tawag doon kaya iyon po ang ipinangalan sa akin”, says the MVP who grew up playing in a sea near from home.
In her first TWBA guesting, Sisi talks about her milestones including a career-high 35 points that set a record for beloved school. “Kahit ako, hindi ko alam kung paano [ko nagawa]. Napapa-wow na lang din ako,”says the high-jumper known for her dazzling spikes.
Despite the accolade, Sisi remains true to living up to one of her father’s greatest teachings which is to keep herself grounded at all times. Audiences would often notice a certain move Sisi makes right after making a point where she quickly faces her teammates rather than the cameras. This, according to her, is a signal of humility.
“Holding that ball, masasabi talagang ‘It’s a life’. Volleyball is a bridge to opportunities. Naging tulay siya para makumpleto ang pamilya namin at makapagtapos ang kapatid ko sa pag-aaral. Ang dami kong natutunan sa bolang ito,” relates the MVP.
These lessons are the most important aspects she would love to see if ever her life story gets featured in Maalaala Mo Kaya. Sisi has three siblings and their life in Cebu, where she was born and raised, was far from being well-off. Sisi traveled to Manila for studies and living away from her family was not easy. Yet, she found her strength in playing volleyball. If given the chance, Sisi would like to see Kim Chiu, another Cebuana, breathing in life to her inspiring story.
But, before that anticipated MMK episode happens, Sisi takes on the Fast Talk Challenge first. She says her father is the last person she texts every night. She does stretching after waking up in the morning. Spike is the sexiest volleyball move for her. And just like any other UST student, Sisi is no exception to experiencing the classic knee-high flood in Espana.
If you are in the Philippines, watch the FULL episode on www.iwant.ph
If you are outside the Philippines, watch the FULL episode on www.tfc.tv