WATCH: Alyssa Valdez shows toughness after hurting elbow

TOUGH EAGLE. Alyssa Valdez grabbed her right arm in pain momentarily before rising to finish off a victory for the Ateneo Lady Eagles. Photo by Czaesar Dancel/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines - No pain, no gain.

The toughness of Alyssa Valdez was once again on display during the Ateneo de Manila Lady Eagles' match against the De La Salle University-Dasmariñas Lady Patriots in the Shakey's V-League 12 Collegiate Conference on Sunday, July 26.

The 22-year-old Ateneo captain dove to the floor of the FilOil Flying V Arena to attempt a dig and immediately grabbed her right elbow, rolling over once before rising back to her feet to continue playing.

Valdez didn't just finish the game, she paved the way with 22 points on 15 spikes, 6 service aces and one block as the Lady Eagles won their third straight game to remain unbeaten.

For Valdez, playing hurt is just part of the game.

"During training we always push ourselves to the limit. We can't avoid minor injuries. Everyone in the team is recovering from minor injuries. It's okay. It's part of the game and part of the training," the two-time reigning UAAP MVP said.

(WATCH: Vine highlights of Ateneo Lady Eagles' third straight V-League victory)

Valdez also showed her grit at the 2015 U23 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship in May when she played with a taped up thumb against some of the best competition in the region. – With reports from Jane Bracher/Rappler.com