National junior netfest unfolds in Cotabato

MANILA, Philippines — Local star Dhea Cua is targeting two titles in the girls’ division of the Cotabato City National Juniors Tennis Championships, which kicked off last Friday at the Sports Plaza court.

A powerhouse in the Davao region swing of the Palawan Pawnshop junior circuit, Cua aims to replicate her earlier triumphs in the Gov. Edwin Jubahib Cup in Davao del Norte and the Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas Championship in Digos, Davao del Sur.

However, the rising star from Kidapawan City faces a stiffer challenge. In the 16-and-under category, contenders like Mikyla Mori, Dominique Calingasan and Isabel Calisangan are expected to put up a fight.

Meanwhile, Cua will have to overcome strong competition from Sanschena Francisco, Karon Raleza, Mary Nataño and Mori in the premier 18-and-U division of the Group 2 tournament sponsored by Mayor Mohamad Ali “Bruce” Matabalao.