Jillian Santos returns to UAAP, beefs up La Salle bid to reclaim crown

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Opposite hitter Jillian Santos comes back to the UAAP as part of the La Salle Lady Spikers after a three-year run with the University of Illinois Chicago in the US NCAA

MANILA, Philippines – Jillian Santos makes her homecoming as she aids the La Salle Lady Spikers’ bid to reclaim the UAAP women’s volleyball crown in Season 87.

Santos hopes to put the experience she gained from a three-year run with the University of Illinois Chicago in the US NCAA to good use for her UAAP comeback.

“It was incredible — playing in another country, experiencing a new level of play, and pushing myself,” said the 5-foot-10 opposite hitter.

“I made lifelong friends, learned a lot about independence, and even became captain of UIC in my last season. That was something I never expected, but I welcomed the challenge with open arms.”

Before moving to the US, Santos played for the UST Junior Tigresses in high school, teaming up with the likes of Detdet Pepito, Regina Jurado, and Pia Abbu.

She also had a brief stint as a reserve for the Ateneo Blue Eagles in Season 84 in 2022.

In her return to the Philippines, Santos chose La Salle, saying the Lady Spikers were “the primary one that really expressed interest.”

That Santos’ mother graduated from La Salle also contributed to her decision.

“It forced me to step out of my comfort zone and understand myself better — not just as a player but as a person,” she said about her US move.

“Now, I’m back to square one with La Salle, but I’m ready to learn again and adapt to the Philippine style of play,” added Santos, who graduated summa cum laude from UIC with a degree in psychology.

With Santos on board, the Lady Spikers aim to recapture the title they last won in Season 85 as they seek to rebound from a heartbreaking Season 86 campaign which saw them booted out of the Final Four by the Tigresses.

Santos has two years of UAAP eligibility left and will pursue a master’s in clinical psychology.

“Our team is working hard. We’re excited for the competition, and yes, we’re gunning for that championship. We’re confident,” said Santos. – Rappler.com