02/11/2025
VSNI Breaks the Drought, Bags Silver in TASSAA Volleyball Finals
STO. NIÑO, Cagayan – After several years of missing the podium, Veridiano-Sto. Nino Institute Inc. (VSNI) finally made history after finishing as silver medalists, as they fell short against the seven-time defending champion, San Vicente Institute (SVI), 25-22, 25-20, 25-16, 25-19, 15-10, in the Men's Volleyball Finals during the Tuguegarao Archdiocesan School System Athletic Association (TASSAA) Meet held at St. Joseph College of Baggao in Baggao, Cagayan on October 30, 2025.
For the VSNI team, this long-awaited finals match was their moment to finally compete against the defending champions and prove that their years of preparation, perseverance, and passion had brought them to where they truly belong.
VSNI started strong, capturing the first two sets with powerful spikes from Wino B. Dumrique and Carl Bryan Tadia, and solid placements and sets from Justine Adriano.
The defense of liberos Joed Olea and Kyle Lingan also helped the team control the early game.
However, the seasoned SVI squad managed to recover and take the last three sets to defend their crown.
This brought sorrow to the Grade 12 student-athletes, who believed they would capture the gold before graduating from the team.
Despite the loss, VSNI’s performance marked a historic milestone — their first-ever podium finish in years.
Head Coach Sir Frederick “Fhrei” Daniel praised his team’s effort, saying, “Proud na proud ako sa inyo, ang gagaling ninyo. We made history. Imagine, from nothing to silver (I’m so proud of you, you’re all amazing. We made history. Imagine, from nothing to silver).".
The team received full support from the faculty, Fr. Vince Miguel, and other VSNI athletes who cheered throughout the match.
School Principal Dr. Rodrigo F. Balaqui Jr. also extended his congratulations to the team for their remarkable achievement.
Meanwhile, VSNI team captain Dumrique and setter Adriano are set to join the SVI Volleyball Team for the upcoming Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Meet next year.