PNJK and AMSAI reign in DAPRISA 2023 High School Volleyball Tournament

The Davao Association of Private Schools and Administrators (DAPRISA) 2023 High School Volleyball Tournament was marked by thrilling athleticism and powerhouse performances. Hosted at the Brokenshire College Toril Gymnasium from October 23rd to October 29th, 2023, the showdown saw Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai (PNJK) and Ananda Marga Special Academic Institution (AMSAI) emerging as the champions in the girls’ and boys’ tournaments, respectively. The champion teams will be representing Unit-8 in the upcoming Davao City Athletic Association Meet in January 2024.

Claiming their seventh consecutive Girls’ High School Championship, PNJK overpowered the Philippine Academy of Sakya with decisive sets of 25-15 and 25-19. This victory adds another feather in PNJK’s cap, bringing their DAPRISA championships total to a dozen.

In a gripping battle for third place, Ford Academy of the Arts defeated Dr. P. Ocampo College Davao with scorelines of 25-20 and 25-22, clinching the bronze medal.

Head Coach of PNJK largely credited their consistent wins in the annual meet to intensive training and a relentless focus on character development of the young players. “Consistent training, four times a week. Also, building up the character of the players from a young age is crucial. Attitude is more important than skill. Skills can be learnt,” he stated.

AMSAI clinched their maiden Boys’ High School Championship with a hard-fought 25-23, 25-23 win over Brokenshire College Toril. In another competitive standoff, Davao Central College prevailed over Precious International School of Davao with scores of 25-22 and 25-15 to secure the bronze medal.

Savoring their historic victory, AMSAI Head Coach Paul John Saraga attributed the win to team effort and determination, stating, “Everyone in the team contributed to claim the school’s first-ever championship. Their efforts have truly paid off.”

Saraga also acknowledged Kristoffer Ryan Gallardo, a standout player who significantly stepped up in the climactic match against the defending champion. Gallardo’s unyielding zeal and robust leadership skills were instrumental to AMSAI’s breakthrough success. “All of them gave their all. But I believe KR poured out his heart to the game. He showed eagerness and strong leadership inside the court,” he noted.

In the end, the DAPRISA 2023 High School Volleyball Tournament illuminated the strength and perseverance of the individual athletes and their collective teams, giving promising insight into the future of Philippine volleyball.