AFTER a two-year absence from the University of the Visayas, one-time Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) Mythical Five forward Monic Soliva found himself donning the Green Lancers uniform once again on Sept. 12, 2019 when UV took on the University of San Carlos in the 2019 Cesafi men’s basketball tournament.
The 6-foot-5 forward, who helped UV claim the championships in 2015 and 2016, admitted that he was still looking to regain his stamina. Nevertheless, he expressed his elation to be back on the floor to help the Green Lancers in their campaign for a fourth straight title.
“First of all, I’m grateful to Mayor Samsam (Gullas) and Coach Gary (Cortes) for welcoming me back,” said Soliva, who spent the past two years in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, with his wife, Councilor Angel Amador-Soliva.
Soliva added he is also feeling the pressure of being the leader to a team that is in need of one after the departures of erstwhile league MVP Rey Anthony Suerte and team captain Josue Segumpan Jr.
“I’m very happy but at the same time, there’s pressure since I’m the only senior here so I’m trying to set a good example to our rookies and also to the players in Team B.”
Although being far away from his wife and their newborn baby boy has proven to be quite difficult for him, Soliva understands the sacrifice that he has to make.
“I don’t think I have to juggle my focus since my son and my wife are my main focus and priority. Everything else comes second when it comes to my family. They give me so much inspiration but in the end, some sacrifices have to be made,” added Soliva. (JNP)