Blocking is an important defensive skill in the game of volleyball. And it is one of the hardest skills to learn, and it does not ensure a point most of the time, unless properly executed. The objectives of blocking is to stop the ball, and hopefully return it to the opponents side for a point, also making the court easier for the back row to defend, and to deflect the ball up so that it can be used for an attack. In this department, Beverly Boto of the Lyceum Lady Pirates and Michelle Segodine built the toughest wall to destruct.

Michelle Segodine

Number 13 is considered unlucky by most, but I guess this is not the case for Michelle Segodine. Wearing jersey n. 13 for the Adamson Falcons, Mitch is one of the most colorful personalities in the recent UAAP season that lead the people to observe this lady on the on-going Shakey’s V-league. I personally had the chance to talk with this woman for two times and guess what? She’s accommodating, enthusiastic, and very charming. I asked her if she visits volleyball sites, and she replied in a childlike manner “Oo, pero maraming namang may ayaw sa akin dun. Ang sa akin lang naman pag-lift lang ng spirit yun”, smiling. Nevertheless, Segodine is one of those player who had the biggest improvement on the attacking skills, making her one of the starting six of her team. Though with some lapses which could be erased by further training, her performance is commendable. She is currently the top 13 scorer of the league with 85 points, of 20% coming from her blocks. That made her the second best blocker at this point, averaging 0.57 blocks per set, with the help of her height advantage. Mitch is a significant reason why Adamson is the top blocking team at this point and she is out to be one of the most prolific blockers in collegiate volleyball. Try to have a different angle when looking at Michelle and you’ll see why.

Beverly Boto

For a second thought, if you’re on court and you see a woman wearing a white and maroon shirt with number 13, then you are definitely unlucky. The presence of Bev Boto is absolutely felt in every game that she played. Being a veteran, she is regarded as one of the most respected players in the league. Her trademark running attacks and blocking prowess made her a player to watch-out for. She is currently on the top list of attackers with 129 points at the efficiency of 39.45%. A hard-working player that she is, Boto is not easy to discourage, she will keep on trying and trying to deliver points for her team in any possible way. Witnessing her effectively, she is now the second best scorer with 155 points under her name, 22 points from her blocking ability. That further embeds Boto on the number 1 spot when it comes to blocking, making me call her the Queen of the Net. She averages 0.63 blocks per set. She can read the plays of her opponents and her vast experience made her the best blocker that she is. Bev Boto is undeniably a top-caliber blocker.

They won’t let you in and they are humps on you way. They are fearless, they are the best blockers.

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