Earth Kingdom conquers Men's Volleyball; Water Tribe makes a splash in Women's Division — Intramurals 2025

Cheers erupted inside the Calamagui 2nd Covered Court as the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribe ruled the volleyball courts, capturing the Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Championship titles, respectively, during the Isabela State University–Ilagan Intramurals 2025 held on October 9–10.

The Earth Kingdom dominated the Men’s Volleyball finals, sweeping the Air Nomad in straight sets, 2–0 (25–22, 25–15). The Kingdom set the tone early in the first set with a barrage of service aces and thunderous spikes, racing to an 8–0 lead.

After a short timeout midway through the frame, the powerful duo of Brylle Cabigon and John Dwayne Tugade ignited their side with explosive attacks, holding a narrow 16–14 lead. A thunderous spike from Cabigon ultimately sealed the first set, 25–22.

Riding the momentum, the Earth Kingdom kept their rhythm in the second set as Cabigon and Tugade continued to dominate with well-placed serves and unstoppable hits. Their coordination and consistency overwhelmed the Air Nomad, cruising to a 25–15 win to secure the gold medal.

 “Dahil sa dalawang araw na tryout, hindi kami nakapag-training, kaya adjustment na lang sa isa’t isa ang ginawa namin para manalo,” said John Dwayne Tugade, team captain of Earth Kingdom. “Ine-encourage ko sila and syempre, prayer,” he added.

The Air Nomads settled for silver after a valiant performance, while the Fire Nation claimed the bronze medal following a close semifinal match against Air Nomad, 2–1 (25–11, 26–24, 15–9).

Meanwhile, the Women’s Volleyball Finals saw the Water Tribe make waves as they swept the Earth Kingdom in straight sets, 25–15, 25–18, to capture the championship crown.

The Water Tribe took early control of the opening set through sharp serves and quick attacks, leaving the Earth Kingdom trailing, 12–5. Despite a few comeback attempts, Water’s momentum proved unstoppable as they closed the first set, 25–15.

Determined to recover, the Earth Kingdom fought back in the second set, tying the score at 8–8 with strong serves and improved defense. However, the Water Tribe, powered by the dynamic duo Aliah Marie Sanchez and Diana Rose Dizon, regained control with powerful spikes and solid floor coverage. Their teamwork and energy sealed the deal, 25–18, completing the sweep.

The Earth Kingdom settled for silver, showing remarkable sportsmanship and grit throughout the tournament, while the Air Nomads secured bronze after falling short to Earth Kingdom in the semifinals, 2–0 (25–13, 25–23).

Article by Mark Louie Bulusan