POW ERPLAY V O L U M E
T H E L P U I N D E P E N D E N T S E N T I N E L’ S S P O R T S M A G A Z I N E
Copyright 2017 by the LPU Independent Sentinel. POWERPLAY is the official sports magazine of the LPU Independent Sentinel, the official student publication of Lyceum of the Philippines University-Manila. All rights reserved. No parts of this book may be reproduced or used in any form without prior agreement of the LPU Independent Sentinel. DISCLAIMER: Some of the graphics, logos and page backgrounds were taken from Google images and belong to their respective owner/s. We do not own the copyright for these images. The LPU Independent Sentinel is located at Room 230-A, Jose P. Laurel Building, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Muralla St., Intramuros, Manila. Email Address: lpusentinel@gmail.com Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/LPUSentinel Twitter Account: @LPUSentinel
ON THE COVER: LPU Cheerleading Team’s Clarisse Perez, LPU Men’s Basketball Team Wilson Baltazar, LPU Football Team’s James Paul Dorego, LPU Track and Field Team’s Ronne Malipay, LPU Badminton Team’s Francis Adrian Ramos Photos by Jessie Guilas, John Christian Alvariño, Leander Gaffud Design by Rodney Garcia
EDITOR’S NOTE Once again, another season of the NCAA has come and passed which resulted to several victories and defeats from the LPU Pirates. The results may be different from every game, but the LPU Pirates never went home empty handed. Their collective efforts in terms of skill, teamwork, and unity gave them lessons to learn to not only improve their game in the future, but it also made them into better athletes, students, and people in general. The experience of playing for the Pirates guides the athletes on what they will do once they graduate from LPU and step into the real world. Also, the said experience provides an opportunity for today’s rookies to make a name for themselves as champions of tomorrow. These are the kind of stories Powerplay Volume 3 wants to provide to its readers. It is very difficult to accomplish, but I am grateful for the reporters, photographers, artists, editors, and advisers who worked hard in order to get this magazine published. Also, the interviews and photoshoots featured in this publication cannot be done without the active participation of athletes, coaches, and the Athletics Department. On behalf of this year’s Powerplay Editorial Board, may you be inspired by the glimpse to the future provided by the stories from the great athletes of LPU.
VIVA LARGA PIRATA! Francis Felix Falgui
Editor-in-Chief, Powerplay Sports Magazine Sports Editor, The LPU Independent Sentinel
POWERPLAY CONTENTS
“Gusto kong ibigay yung panalo, ‘di lang naman ako pati yung mga teammates ko.”
JAY MA R PEREZ
1 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
The rise of the fighter A look into one of LPU’s finest rookies By Bea Patricia M. Pelayo
R
acing and dashing across the court while aiming for the basket, the 23-year old FilipinoNigerian Jaymar “CJ” Perez found basketball as his pastime. Now, this sport has become the name of his game and enters the field as one of Pirates’ finest.
Going back to his NCAA roots has a lot to do with LPU basketball team’s coach Topex Robinson. “[Si] Coach Topex yung mentor ko talaga since nagstart ako magbasketball dito sa Manila. Siya na yung mentor ko.” Said CJ, recalling on how he joined the ranks.
He may be the newest member of the Pirates, but he has a lot of experience under his belt. Before he became a Pirate, He spent two playing years in San Sebastian College (SSC). He also stayed in Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) for residency until he landed in LPU.
“Parang kinausap niya ako kung gusto ko na magstick sa Gilas or mag-PBA na lang. Pero mas pinili kong mag-LPU kasi gusto ko din siyang makasama ulit and alam mo yun, matulungan siya at matulungan din niya ako sa basketball career ko,” Perez said.
The former Gilas Pilipinas player, who proudly represented our country in the international basketball scene, admitted that the experience was definitely an opportunity for him. “Yung experience doon sobrang sarap kasi alam mo yung dati school lang yung nirerepresent mo,” he said.
He also chose LPU because of the huge support the students give to the players during basketball games.
According to Perez, eyeing for the championship is a step by step process that comes with teamwork and practice. Perez left a great quote from coach Robinson that summarizes their plan as a team for the next basketball leagues. “The enemy of great is good’, kung sa tingin mo sarili mo na [magaling] ka na, hindi ka na makikinig,” he said. “So iniisip namin na madami pa kaming matutunan kay coach habang tumatagal hanggang pagdating ng NCAA. Mas okay na kami sa mga natutunan namin. Malalabas namin sa games namin”.
When asked on what he can contribute to the team as a rookie, he was humble enough to say that it will not be a one-man play.
“Then yung Pilipinas pa yung irerepresent mo so parang sobrang gandang experience para sa akin yun. And yung paglalaro sa Gilas as in ibang-iba siya, lahat nung best mo ibibigay mo ng buong puso,”
“Para sa akin lang gusto kong ibigay yung panalo, di lang naman ako pati yung mga teammates ko. Yun din naman yung mindset nila so parang sinasabi sa amin ni coach lahat nung mindset namin dapat papuntang forward sa championship.” Perez said.
Being part of the national team made him more confident as a player. “Yung experience na makalaro sa Gilas mas naging confident ako sa paglalaro,” he said.
“As a rookie, siguro yung offense and defense and intensity sa court. Yun lang siguro ma-contribute ko sa team”. He added.
“Kaya yung teammates ko nag look up sila sakin kaya pag may kailangan itama sa mga teammates ko nagtatanong sila sakin,”
on their team next basketball season.
As for their preparations for NCAA Season 93, discipline is on top of the list since they need to wake up early for intense trainings because their coaches have high expectations
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 2
“Trabaho namin yun eh, as a student athlete kailangan namin maglaro, irepresent yung school tapos tuluy-tuloy lang sa laban kahit na anong mangyari.�
WILSON B A LTA Z A R
3 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Aiming far with Baltazar By Apple Mae V. Panado
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CAA 92’s “Hero of the Team” and Shooting Guard Wilson Baltazar, who placed second in the three-point shootout event during the NCAA All Star Game, considered that playing for the LPU basketball team is one of his greatest achievements in life, not to mention that it was the first school he has tried out with. Aside the height and the looks Throughout his playing years, Baltazar had proven himself by showing off his skills and giving the best for the team. During the 92nd season of NCAA, where the team got the 9th spot in the rankings, he was called the “Hero of the Team” by leading the squad with 24-points despite losing against San Beda College in one of their games. Struggles weren’t new to Baltazar. He admitted that they tend to
lose hope and feel down after losing a game. Sometimes, he feels homesick and misses his family. But his dreams of helping his family and bringing them pride kept him going. According to Baltazar, they should have that courage as student athletes on whatever might happen they must keep on fighting. “Trabaho namin yun eh, as a student athlete kailangan [ko] maglaro, i-represent yung school tapos tuluytuloy lang sa laban kahit na anong mangyari,” Baltazar said. Known by his pivotal three-point shots, he also wanted to be remembered by his colleagues by bringing the team to the final four next season since it was already his last season playing for the Pirates. College indeed is not forever and his playing years in LPU will soon end.
Life after LPU The common challenge for student athletes is to choose whether they should pursue their course in academics or follow their passion in sports. For Baltazar, who is taking up BS in International Hospitality Management Specialized in Hotel and Restaurant Administration (BS-IHM-HRA), he decided to focus on his track. “Siyempre mas priority ko pa rin yung studies ko lalo na yung sa course ko para makahanap ako ng trabaho in the future. Kasi yung basketball panandalian lang iyan,” he said. However, he is still open for other opportunities in basketball since it is also his dream to be part of bigger leagues. After graduation, he is planning to try out in D-League and hopefully join the ranks of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) soon.
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 4
“Si God ang nagdala sa akin dito.”
“I can assure you that I’m a hardworking [athlete].”
FLOYD MAGPANTAY CY RIELLE CARRAMANZANA
5 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
New kids on the court: Carramanzana and Magpantay By Francis Felix C. Falgui
I
n sports, great athletes may come and go, but new sportsmen and women will take their place, or create a legacy of their own. The same goes in the NCAA volleyball scene, where the rookies of the LPU Pirates boost up their ranks with their skills and their winning attitude, making the Pirates Volleyball team the formidable faction it is today, and in the future. Libero, Student, Mother Cyrielle Mae Carramanzana of Sta. Ana Manila started playing volleyball when she was a fourth-grade student, and she recently played her first season with the Pirates. However, she is already the first libero of the team which is instrumental for the team’s 5-4 win-
loss record this season. Not only that she is also a sophomore studying BS Customs Administration (BSCA), she is also a single mother of one child. According to the young libero, God led her to join the team since she is actually not aware that LPU has a women’s volleyball team. She took part in the tryouts after she was advice by her best friend to do so. “Thankful ako kay Lord dahil ni-lead niya ako dito sa LPU. Binigyan pa niya ako ng isang pagkakataon para ayusin ko lahat. Iniisip ko noon kailangan ko makakuha ng athletic scholarship para makapag-aral ako ng libre and makatulong akong financially sa parents ko dahil sila [ang] nagsupport sa anak ko,” said Carramanzana, when asked on how grateful she is on joining the Pirates. But the student athlete can offer so much more than defense on her team. She said that her dedication to game will help her team win games. “I can assure you that I’m a hardworking [athlete],” she said. “Lagi akong nagtraining kasi gusto ko makatulong sa team and gusto ko pa may matutunan at mahasa pa ang skills ko sa paglalaro dahil naglalaro kaming lahat para kay Jesus and lahat ng paghihirap namin ay magiging worth it.” She finds it easy to get along with the team and coaches Emil Lontoc and Benjamin
Mape, since they gave her a warm welcome to the team ever since her tryout. They treated her as a family member ever since, having fun times together, and accompanying her when she has problems. Also, she became more faithful to the Lord more than ever. Carramanzana already achieved her personal goal, which is to become the first libero of the team. She was surprised when she got her dream. “Nagulat na lang [ako na ginawa akong first libero ni Coach Emil], ‘di ko akalain na naging first libero ako kasi nasanay ako na maging 2nd libero, okay lang, tapos ganun pala ang feeling, ang saya kaya ginrab ko na yung opportunity ko, kaya pasalamat ako kay Lord na ginrant niya.” Her goal for the team is for them to enter the Final Four, something the team hasn’t been a part of since 2011. They also plan to become the NCAA Women’s Volleyball champions because she dedicates her game to the Lord and everyone who believes in them. She said that her team will achieve their goal step by step. Carramanzana finds it unique in the Pirates team that they have a weekly bible study, headed by Coach Emil, who is also a pastor. The bible studies help her to become a better person by increasing her patience, and help her get along with people better, which she also shares to her family. So far, Carramanzana has a wonderful experience in LPU because of her teammates. Her coaches made her happy, and the scholarship the school grants her makes her education easier for her family. Her time with LPU made her a better athlete, student, and person by teaching her discipline, time management, and responsibility. “Siyempre bilang nanay din masasabi ko din na naging better person [ako] nung nandito ako sa LPU. Ngayon, [mas] luminaw, at lalong lumawak yung pananaw ko sa buhay. Atsaka nagkaroon [ako] ng pagpapahalaga [sa] pagmamahal ko kay Lord at sa kapwa ko,” said Carramanzana, on how joining the Pirates made her a better person. Late bloomer, promising player Floyd Magpantay is the service specialist of the Pirates Men’s Volleyball team, which earned the 6th spot with a 4-5 win-loss record this season. He started to play Volleyball after he graduated from high school, but he began playing for the team on his senior year as Customs Administration student. He did not join the Pirates in the past because he chose to focus on his studies first. He chose to play for LPU because according to him, that’s what God led him to do. “Si God ang nagdala sa akin dito,” said Magpantay, when asked on his reason to play for the Pirates. “Kasi ang dami kong school na pinagexaman. Kahit nakapasa ako, wala naman akong gana pumasok, dito talaga ako napunta dahil kay God.”
Despite having only a year left to play for the Pirates, Magpantay said that his skills and his knowledge on service and defense is what he can offer to the team. Also, it was easy for him to get along with his teammates and with Coach Lontoc and Coach Mape because they are the ones who approached him first to guide him, and correct his mistakes in the game. “Kwela, masaya kasama atsaka minsan kapag down ako, sila ang nagbubuhat sa akin pataas. Sa coaches namin naman ganun din, hindi kami nawawalan ng time para kay God,” said Magpantay on his thoughts about his team. His goal on his time with the Pirates is to win an individual award, and for the team to compete and win the championship.
He finds the unity and the coaching style of the Pirates to be unique, which keeps him motivated to train and play for them. He was also grateful for the scholarship given to him by the school. During his time with the Pirates, Floyd shared that he became a better athlete and person by improving his self-confidence as well as trust in himself, his teammates, and other people outside the campus. He also said that the team made him a better student by improving his time management skills to balance his academic and athletic life. Magpantay was happy with his time with the Pirates because according to him, “Sobrang saya yung time ko sa team, walang dull moments, atsaka yung studies, wala rin naman conflict sa studies,” he said. Both Carramanzana, and Magpantay prove that the rookies of the entire Pirates roster are not only skilled in the court, but also have interesting stories to tell after the game about their lives. For them, the triumph of Gold is just around the corner.
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 6
“[Being a student athlete] is a lot of learning. It enhance[s] your skills, your attitude, your way of life and once I graduate I will use this skills for good purposes.”
MARK PECAÑA
7 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
“Hard work beats talent.”
CHE RILYN SINDAYEN
Sindayen and Pecaña: From Pirates into legends By Shiella Mae J. Clado
T
he LPU Pirates Volleyball team wrapped up the NCAA Season 92 Volleyball tournament with the rank of 6th place for both the women’s and men’s team.
(BSBA-MA). A course that requires a lot of discipline, time and effort. Despite this, she proved that she has the strength and perseverance in order to smash the ball to victory. She pointed out that athletes are still students who need to prioritize their education above all. In addition to these, she emphasized that she offers all of her achievements, games and will to God. “I’d like people to remember me as the student athlete who honors God and who’s very responsible.” She also shared how hard it is to be a student athlete and how it is no joke to balance time between studies and practicing for games. However, she confidently said “Sobrang mahirap siya pagsabayin pero pag mahal mo kasi yung ginagawa mo kayang kaya” to motivate fellow athletes. Cherilyn pointed out that people, especially her fellow students should stop generalizing student athletes, assuming that all of them pass just because they are players. Many of them really strive hard to make sure that their grades are stable so they could pass and represent the school at the same time.
Moreover, the Pirates performed well this season despite not reaching the Final Four as the women’s team got five victories, including a win against this season’s host and defending champion, CSB Blazers, and four losses, while the men’s team got four victories, and five losses. They were able to achieve this by surpassing their limits, and by giving their best every game. The team captains of the women’s and men’s teams, namely Cherilyn Sindayen and Mark Pecaña shared their experience during the tournament and their plans for the future. They also wanted to impart a sense of motivation to our other athletes, in order to know what it’s like to be in the Pirates’ volleyball team. Confidently Beautiful with a Volleyball Extraordinary, holistic and life changing – these three words is how Cherilyn Sindayen, current team captain of Lady Pirates Volleybelles, described her experience on being a part of the volleyball team. Sindayen is currently on her 4th year of BSBA major in Management Accounting
She described being a Captain Ball as having “numerous boyfriends with different moods” as she was concerned to all of them especially their emotional behavior. Unlike at first, when she was a rookie and only had to think for her own sake, she now looks after not just herself but also her team consisting of 18 women.
the team’s setter this year. The cheerful volleyball setter wants to be remembered as a teammate who always makes the team laugh and keeps the happy aura. He shared that being a student-athlete “is a lot of learning. It enhance[s] your skills, your attitude and your way of life and once I graduate I will use [these] skills for good purposes.” Pecaña also wants to pursue his career based on his course, which is BS in Hospitality Management major in Cruise Line Operations and Hotel Services (BSHMCLOHS). He also emphasized that this does not mean that he will stop playing volleyball but would just focus on his career more after he graduates. Just like Sindayen, Mark pointed out that athletes should not forget that they are all should be playing for God first. “He gives me strength to [toughen] my skills,” he said. Both of captains of the Pirates Volleyball team have cemented their legacy in campus because of their performance and their ability to lead. However, joining the Pirates also left a mark on them by improving their skills and character which they can use once they leave the Pirates, and move on to the future.
When asked how she sees herself in the future she positively said “I see myself as a person dedicated sa profession na pinili ko kasi I believe in myself lalo na’t I have the Lord guiding me.” Nonetheless, she’s not entirely closing the doors in playing volleyball. She said if she were given a chance, she wants to play in a commercial team to hone her skills. Years of experience really taught her a lot, from her perspective in life to her faith in God. Her best advice would be to put God first in every game and every aspect of life and that for her “Hard work beats talent.” The Setter of the Record Meanwhile, the men’s team was also seen soaring this year. The captain of the Pirates Men’s Volleyball Team, 4th year student, Mark Anthony Pecaña is also one of
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 8
“Sa paglalaro ko ng chess talagang nadedevelop yung character namin,”
JHOEMAR MENDIOGARIN
9 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Attack, Break, Check Dominating the chessboard with Jhoemar Mendiogarin By Maverick Matibag
I
n the strategic battlefield of chess where players fight until they overthrow the king and beat their opponent’s, Jhoemar Mendiogarin, a rookie chess player in LPU, chose to fight for the Pirates Chess Team not just because of scholarships, but also for the name of the game and bringing home that crispy bacon for his alma mater. For him, studying and playing for the university is the best choice that he made when he stepped into college and started his chess career as a rookie in the team.
“[Sumali ako dahil] napakaganda nang scholarship nila [LPU]. Sobrang ganda kasi wala na talaga kaming binabayaran,” he said.
His fellow players are also helping to foster his character to become a professional and powerful player, as well as planning strategies and goals for their career or other aspects in life. “Sa paglalaro ko ng chess talagang nadedevelop yung character namin,” he said. “Yung mga seniors namin, ipinapakita nila kung ano ang dapat maging ugali namin as an athlete. Siyempre tinutulungan kaming ma-build yung character namin para pag dating ng professional life namin magagamit
blaming one another for every loss they encountered from the competing. Instead, they take it as a lesson and they fix the flaws of their performance as a team. “So ‘pag may problema naman kasi kami, alam naman namin eh,” he stated. “Mabilis naman siyang [maayos]. Naayos [siya] kasi hindi naman namin siya tine-take personally. Hindi naman kami nag-aano ng galit sa kapwa namin,” Mendiogarin shared. For the next season, the LPU
“Tapos supportive pa yung coach namin, yung nag-recruit sa amin. So, I think LPU ang naging best choice ko talaga sa college. I decided na maglaro for LPU.” Mendiogarin added. He said the LPU Chess team coach Christopher Cunanan is very supportive in every competition they joined, including the National Collegiate Athlete Association (NCAA) and various local and international competitions. Mendiogarin appreciates the support given by the team to one another which he thinks is very important. “Siyempre yung support ni coach, sobra kasi yung naging suporta niya sa amin. Siya na rin minsan, ginagastos niya na ang sarili niyang pera para sa amin,” Mendiogarin shared. Being a student of LPU and an athlete at the same time, helped him to be mature and his older teammates intensified his skills to prepare him for the future.
namin. Di lang siya puro chess talaga. Tinutulungan din nila kami sa ibang gawain,” Mendiogarin said. It is normal for a team to experience defeat but as a chess team according to Mendiogarin, they are not
Pirates Chess team is expected to come up with new strategies on the table to enhance their play as they compete with their opponents from other universities. The team is also eyeing to bring home the championship for the next NCAA season.
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 10
“Focused lang ako sa bawat laro. Para mabigay ko ‘yung best ko,”
J O N AT HA N J OTA 11 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Eyes for the Grandmaster The fierce and record-breaking journey of Jonathan Jota By John Poliquit
H
e smiles a lot yet seemed pretty shy when asked if he is setting his sights for tougher Chess competitions, tournaments where the best players move each piece to claim the grandmaster title. Turns out, his dad and he himself have their eyes on the prize. “Gusto ng daddy ko na makipagcompete sa ibang bansa,” he said. “Pinaghahandaan ko.” As a varsity veteran who had no losses and a clean 6.5/7 record at the recent NCAA Chess Tournament at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila,
Jota struggled through many skirmishes—board after board, foe after foe— to fiercely knockback opponents with each strategic piece to own the game. Jonathan is not someone to be laughed at when competing. Behind his light smiles and little lively eyes, his brutal blows with each move in every tile defeated two-time NCAA winners and MVPs. “Focused lang ako sa bawat laro. Para mabigay yung best ko,” Jota said. His experience cemented his aim of becoming a master player this 2017. His skill makes the goal for LPU’s long awaited throne to the Chess Championship not far behind. It hasn’t always been easy for the Pirates chess players to bring the sport back into their domain. Still, despite the team finishing third place in the last NCAA tournament, Jota and his coach Christopher Cunanan aim to build up trainings and strategies to reach first place in the next game. In the world of chess, putting the king away from danger and moving each piece out into the board to pierce
through enemy lines isn’t the only thing that can guarantee a group’s win. For Jota, it’s all about teamwork. “Mas buo kami. Sa ibang school kasi, di sila nag te-training masyado. So dito sa Lyceum, nag te-training kami ng husto para maging maganda yung performance namin. Nandun din si coach para tulungan niya kami,” Jota added. For him, the reason why his team is the one being feared at every tournament is because of one single advantage. “Solid team siya [LPU chess team]. Solid team kasi lahat nagkakaisa para makamit ang isang goal namin, kaya next season, hoping ako na makukuha namin ang championship,” Jota said. Jota continues to represent how chess players like him fiercely win each battle, stunning even the strongest opponents. He, and his fellow Pirates, are not to be underestimated.
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 12
“You will [choose] your own path, whether it’s good or bad, it’s your choice.”
FRANCIS RAMOS 13 POWERPLAY POWERPLAY MAGAZINE MAGAZINE
Ramos:
A Shuttler for his family By Alexandra Nicole B. Zaide
D
ifferent athletes have different reasons to engage in their respective sports, some are in it for the glory, some play it because it’s their livelihood. But there are a number of individuals who play sports for their family, especially the members they lost. One of those athletes is 19-year-old Francis Adrian Ramos, a student athlete from Iba, Zambales who plays Badminton, while studying BSBA-Business Management for three years. He dedicates his passion for his dad who passed away when he was young, and was able to overcome his responsibilities, and stay committed to his passion by dedicating his games to his sister, to God, and his father. Ramos began playing Badminton when he was in elementary school, and he kept playing the sport because he enjoyed it. During his junior year in high school, he was able to join the national team. However, playing for the country gave him too much pressure. But when he joined the Pirates, he enjoyed his time playing with them.
“Of course, [there’s] more pressure [when we’re] playing for our country. Kasi ikaw yung one of the best players in our country. ‘Pag natalo ka, ang daming [negative] comment[s] sayo. Well, On the other side, playing for LPU is one of the greatest feelings ever in my life. I’m playing for my team. And everytime na isipin ko [ito], I feel proud,” Ra-
mos said on his experience playing for the country and LPU.
he planned to invest once he plays for the team after three to four years.
The pressure from playing badminton almost made Ian give up in participating from games. But he overcame this by thinking about his parents and ambitions. “Gusto ko [i-prioritize] ang pag-aaral for my parents para makabawi na ako. But, na-overcome ko siya because, inisip ko yung mga dreams ko for myself, na habang nasa stage ako, I’m playing badminton for my school. I’ll give my very best performance in every game.” Ian said on how he handles pressure.
“I’m pursuing badminton for my Dad who is in heaven. And to be a businessman is for my family who has been my inspiration in every single day,” said Ramos on the reasons behind his plans for the future. Once Ramos leaves LPU he wants the other students of the campus to know what his passion is for “You will [choose] your own path, whether it’s good or bad, it’s your choice.”
In the future, Ian aims to become a successful student athlete, not just a star athlete. Once he graduates from college, he will join the national team once again to bring honor for the country. “I want to represent the country because that’s one of my dreams as an athlete. I want to compete in the BWF or Badminton World Federation tournaments” Ramos said. However, Francis does not only want to be a national athlete, he also wants to be a businessman, where he plans to establish his own Filipino restaurant with his mother. According to Ramos,
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 14
“I would like to be remembered, sa kung paano ako naglaro nung NCAA.”
NAZAREN CUILAO 15 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Slamming for the Top: The story of Nazaren Cuilao By Ma. Danna R. Tansiongco
S
he reaches out and pummels her opponent with a smashing blow of her racket into the court. With her smashes and drop shots, Nazaren Cuilao, the 18-year old second year Tourism Management student was named as one of the best players among the Pirates Badminton team in just two years. She proved to everyone that she’s not just a sophomore. Cuilao always loved playing badminton since it was introduced to her at a young age by her family. Now, she showed to spectators, and her fellow players alike what she can give to the LPU as she faces the world of sport she loved. The team placed third this year in the NCAA Men and Women’s badminton tournament. Cuilao said the most memorable game in her life was when she expected that they would get the first place in the said compe-
tition, “Last year, this season kasi nakikita mo na andun na kami. Sobrang kaya na namin pero nawala pa so ibig sabihin hindi pa talaga ‘to para sa amin,” she said. However, she still believes that the team will dominate and own the championships in God’s perfect time. C u i l a o claimed what keeps her going on playing and honing her skills is God, her family, teammates and the great help of scholarship in her studies. She added that the team’s well-disciplined players who always cheer with each other are some of the team’s playing motivation. They treat each other as family and not just teammates. However, Cuilao admitted that in the future, she will pursue her career and focus more on herself. Still, she plans to guide aspiring badminton players on how to keep faith and confidence in playing and those who aim for the championship.
When asked about how would she like the people to remember her as a varsity player, Cuilao said, “I would like to be remembered, sa kung paano ako naglaro nung NCAA.” “[Ito’y] kung paano ‘ko ipinaglaban yung school at kung paano ‘ko ibinigay yung best ko sa laro. Though, hindi lang yun, kung paano ako nanalo, kasi hindi naman mahalaga kung paano ka nanalo or natalo, ang mahalaga ibinigay mo yung best mo at lahat ng makakaya mo sa performance,” she added.
POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 16
“Hindi lang siya sports para sa akin, kumbaga may mas malaki pa doon.”
A BDULRAHI M NOOH 17 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
NOOH: THE YOUNG STAR By Charlene T. Silvestre
L
PU Pirates Men’s Swimming Team’s best player Abdulrahim A. Nooh, born from Cotabato, started his free training in swimming when he was just in the fifth grade. After a month of training, Nooh got five medals in the district meet. This made him realize the hidden talent lurking beneath the pool water. Since then, Nooh joined in different swimming competitions, such as NCR’s Palaro, Milo National Little Olympics, and Palarong Pambansa. He was also invited by the Philippine Swimming League (PSL) in 2011 to compete in Singapore for an international meet where he competed against different swimmers from six different countries in Asia including China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand. Because of his impressive record in swimming, he was featured in GMA’s documentary show, iWitness in November 2011. He didn’t know he was a great swimmer when was young. During his elementary years, he tried different sports such as karate, and Taekwondo and was also a member of Pasay’s children choir and their school’s stage play before realizing his passion for swimming. He joined the Pirates Swimming team when one of his senior team-
mates from high school invited him to be part of the group. Despite his hardships in their trainings, the sophomore Marketing
Management student always motivates himself by thinking of his family. “Sakto lang kami sa buhay, hindi kami mapera,” he said, thinking about his family. “Motivation ko talaga yung family ko kasi yun na lang yung maisusukli ko sa kanila sa mga ibinibigay nila sakin. Para maging proud sila sa akin,” Nooh stated. Just like other student athletes, Nooh also finds it hard balancing his time for his studies and sports. But, he assures that he still manages to do his responsibilities, both as a student
and an athlete. Besides, swimming has given him opportunities and lessons that no one could ever take away. For him,
swimming is more than just a sport. “Malaki ang naging epekto ng swimming sa buhay ko,” he said. “Hindi lang siya sports para sa akin, kumbaga may mas malaki pa doon,” he said. Nooh also shared that he wants to be a successful swimming coach in the future and he plans putting up a food business after he graduates. Though the men’s swimming team ended this season in ninth place, Nooh is still determined to bring honor to LPU and hopes that his team will do better and aim for the best next year.
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“Hindi ko alam kung ano talagang purpose Niya. Pero ito yung binigay na talent sakin ni God.”
KAREN VILLEGAS 19 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Diving for her dreams: Villegas just keeps on going By Marielle Justine N. Escabarte
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or the 19-year old, LPU Swimming Team’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Karen Faye Villegas, using her talent in swimming to win every tough competition is for her family and God. “Hindi ko alam kung ano talagang purpose Niya. Pero ito yung binigay na talent sakin ni God.” “Kaya lahat ng achievements ko pagdating sa swimming inaalay ko sa family ko at kay God.” The team’s Women’s division landed 5th place in this year’s 92nd NCAA Swimming tournament. Being the best player in the team, she wanted people to remember her as a simple and humble person. According to her, imperfections motivated her to do her best in every game.
faction na naidudulot nito sakin,” Villegas admitted.
admitted that it is not easy for her to balance her time for academics and sports.
Recently, she is not active in some training sessions because of her responsibilities at her internship. But she doesn’t forget her responsibility as an athlete. She still pushed herself to do some workout routines and prohibited herself from too much stress and improper diet.
Now that she is on her fourth year, with a course of Major in Cruise Line Operation Culinary Arts (CLOCA), she is more determined to achieve her goals to help her family and be the best for her future career.
According to Villegas, she always made ways in improving her skills and develop her mental and physical toughness. She never allowed distractions during training hours. As a student-athlete, Villegas also
Once Villegas graduates from college, she plans to pursue a profession that will use her culinary skills. But it won’t be the end of her swimming career because not only will she continue her passion in swimming, she will also expand her talent by participating in a triathlon one day.
Though she is calm and shy, Villegas has the spirit and eagerness to top the game. She noted that, becoming one of the finalists in the 92nd NCAA Swimming Tournament reminded her to believe in herself and aim for the best. She also stated that her faith in God strengthened her during each match because it made her feel more passionate and believe that she can do whatever it takes to win the game. However, she admitted that there were moments in her life where she almost gave up her passion for Swimming. “Kahit na ilang beses ko na siyang ayawan dahil nakakapagod na, hinahanap ko pa rin yung happiness at satis-
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“Sa akin, disiplina talaga ang kailangan para mabalanse ang oras sa pag-aaral ko, ‘di lang sa pag-aaral o sa sports binabalanse ko ang oras pati na rin sa Panginoon na gumagabay sa atin.”
MARK I SI DRO 21 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Isidro: Passion, Hobbies, and Responsibilities By Eva Marie T. Woods
“T
o love and enjoy the game is just as important as winning it”, that is the lesson table tennis singles rookie Mark Joey Isidro, and his teammates learned after landing on the 6th spot from the recently concluded NCAA Season 92 Table Tennis Tournament. As a student, Isidro said he chose to study in LPU because of its reputation of being one of the top universities in the hospitality industry. As a student of BSIHMCruise Line Operation Culinary Arts (CLOCA), he dreams of becoming a successful chef in the future. As an athlete, however, he
chose LPU because of the coaches’ good reputation when it comes to handling their players. Isidro said their coaches guide each member of the team well, even to the extent of calling just to check on their state, if their grades are failing, or simply to talk. Aside from those, he also mentioned how he liked the warm support the whole LPU community gives the players, regardless of the sports that they play. Meanwhile, Isidro described his working relationship with his teammates as light and happy, treating each other like a family would to its members. Due to this, they share a close and intimate bond with one another. With the team’s discipline, hard work, positive outlook, and good attitude, they become each other’s pillar of strength. “Pagdating kila coach magaling sila magturo [at] magalaga sa bawat player. Gusto nila yung best para sa mga player nila, sa teammates namin okay naman sila kasama sa training masisipag din [sila].” Isidro stated on how he became close to his coaches and teammates. Despite finding it quite challenging to balance his time as a student and as an athlete, playing for the Pirates help him hone his
discipline when it comes to managing his time and priorities. Isidro said that, “Sa akin, disiplina talaga ang kailangan para mabalanse ang oras sa pag-aaral ko, ‘di lang sa pag-aaral o sa sports binabalanse ko ang oras pati na rin sa Panginoon na gumagabay sa atin.” Coach Raul Santos described him as a good player that you can rely on during the game. Despite being young, he is mature as a player when it comes to table tennis. When asked about the team, Isidro stated, “Gusto naming maging isang kampyon ngayong darating na [NCAA] season 93.”
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“Ipagpatuloy lang nila yung nasimulan namin. Maswerte tayo kasi tayo yung nabigyan ng chance na ma-represent ang pangalan ng school.”
ZY RUS PA DILLO
“Passion ko na kasi yung table tennis kaya nage-enjoy ako maglaro at matuto pa.” “Basta gawin nila yung best nila, kaya naman nila yun eh!”
DOM I NI C AU ST R I A E DN A LY N HA LASA N
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THE LPU PADDLING PIRATES:
The doubles-and-singles secret weapon By Jillian Shayne L. Dancel
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he LPU Table tennis team is one of the leading groups to represent the university in various sports competitions, particularly in the NCAA. With the collective effort of each player, they started from the bottom and now they’re here on the top of their game. Yet in a team, there’s always someone considered as a veteran, one who leads the team to grab the bacon and bring it home. THE TEAM’S ACE CAPTAIN AND HIS SIDEKICK For the last four years, Dominic Clyde C. Austria has been one of the key players of the men’s table tennis team. He is currently the team captain who led the squad to earn the 6th rank in the recent NCAA Table Tennis Tournament. He started his journey as a player in the singles division for two years and spent the other two playing in the doubles division with his partner, Zyrus Graigbert C. Padillo, who’s been side-to-side with the captain ever since. The duo considers playing for the school as a privilege one shouldn’t miss. Hence, they value the chance by doing their best in every game–win or lose–to return the favor. Both of them are willing to share what they’ve learned to others just like what their coaches did to them. Since it’s Austria’s last year in school, he would pursue a course-related job as it provides greater opportunities in the future. He sees himself working on a cruise ship or a five-star hotel abroad someday. However, he ensures that he’ll never forget the sport that has brought him to where he is now. He even looks forward to owning a gym or a sports center for athletes in the future, whatever God will give him. “Passion ko na kasi yung table tennis kaya nage-enjoy ako maglaro at matuto pa. Kahit na tumanda ako, hindi mawawala sakin yung table tennis. Nasa puso ko na yan, di mawawala,” said Austria. On the other hand, Padillo considers table tennis a way to help non-privileged students in order for them to reach their dreams. “Kahit yung magkapag-share lang sana kami ng konting nalalaman namin sa
table tennis sa mga bata na interesado na matuto at gusto [ring] makapag-aral sa maayos na paaralan,” he explained.
continue honing her skills as a hobby but not as a full-time player. If given the chance, she will play for Table Tennis tournaments.
Despite continuing his preferred career after graduating, he aims to create a table tennis club to help the kids in the provinces. The creation of the club will not only promote the table tennis sport here in the country but also provide opportunities to the younger generation.
BEFORE SAYING GOODBYE
THE WOMEN’S SINGLES SLAYER Aside from Austria and Padillo, another player who is considered as a veteran from the women’s team is Ednalyn Nicole C. Halasan, a shy but energetic girl who has been contributing to the team for the last three years. She’s been playing in the women’s singles’ division and because of her wonderful skills, she’s already caught the eye of the spectators. Little did anyone know that Halasan’s sport is not really table tennis. “Marami rin akong sport na sinalihan [pero] si mama yung nag[decide]. Kasi dapat, volleyball talaga ako. Nakikita niya na puro pasa yung kamay ko. Tapos sabi niya, stop ka na lang [kaya] table tennis na lang,” she explained. Aside from being flexible, an athlete must also listen to advice in order to improve themselves more. Halasan did both in her career. In her time as an elementary student, her coach advised her to push through table tennis because it will help her in the future. This advice landed her to join the Pirates’ ranks. With all their sacrifices and efforts, Halasan and her team were able to pull the women’s team’s standing to the 5th spot, a place higher than their position last season. Like many other athletes, she has one thing in mind before she leaves LPU – to be in the Final Four. With this, she wants to be remembered not as a veteran but as part of the table tennis team who competed against the top three universities in the finals. After she graduates, she’ll focus on the career she’s chosen. However, she’ll
No words can express how Austria, Padillo, and Halasan value the opportunity given to them, and they wish for their juniors to do the same, leaving a message that says: “Ipagpatuloy lang nila yung nasimulan namin. Maswerte tayo kasi tayo yung nabigyan ng chance na ma-represent ang pangalan ng school. Sobrang swerte natin kasi nakapag-aral tayo sa Lyceum at nakuha pa natin yung mga kurso na gusto natin, kaya sana ‘wag natin sayangin yung opportunity dahil hindi lahat nabibigyan ng chance na makapag-aral,” told Padillo. “Sumunod lagi sa mga nakakatanda kasi sila yung may madaming experiences at alam nila yung best para sayo at pag naka-graduate na kayo ‘wag niyo kakalimutang pasalamatan yung mga taong tumulong sa inyo lalong lalo na yung parents niyo na nagpapakahirap at kumakayod sa trabaho para lang masuportahan kayo sa lahat ng bagay. At ‘wag niyo din kalimutan si Lord na [gumagabay] sa inyo sa lahat ng bagay,” said Captain Austria. Cheery as she is, Halasan adds, “Kung ano man yung gusto ni Coach Raul na mangyari [para] maangat yung team, basta gawin nila yung best nila, kaya naman nila yun eh!” Soon, the trio will end their table tennis journey and venture to different paths in life and will be surely missed once they retire their paddles. But one thing’s for sure, everything they’ve absorbed in this journey will always be with them wherever they go—from their beloved coaches and team, where they consider their second family. It’s painful for a coach to send off his players as he’s seen them grow and mature as a second parent. In a phone call, the team’s Head Coach Raul Santos said that he wishes this trio to “be a good model to all athletes; be good in academics; [and to] have faith in God.” With everything they’ve been through, Coach Santos warmly wants them to remember what they learned no matter what.
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“It was not me who played that game, God used me to win that game.”
PAUL I NE GAVI N 27 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
Black-belted faith By John Christian R. Alvariño
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ith each kick and push to floor, Pauline Gavin, a second year BSBA Marketing student from Bacolod wants God to be seen in her glory as a young athlete. Gavin started her Taekwondo career when she was a first grader student in her hometown. Her father enrolled them in a Taekwondo school together with her siblings but she is the only one who continued Taekwondo. She continued pursuing the sport she loves but had to stop when their house caught fire and had to move to another house. Gavin then continued her career as a Taekwondo player. She even joined Department of Education (DepEd) competitions in their region when she was in fifth grade. Although she is good in her craft, the young athlete is not a stranger to losses and defeats. She even came to a point in her life when she wanted to quit because she was disappointed for losing in too many games. She even tried playing football in the process but had to go back to her first love—Taekwondo. “I was so depressed that time because I was targeting to win that competition but sad to say I didn’t bag the medal,” Gavin recounted. Gavin was a student athlete in Bacolod City before becoming a Pirate. In fact, it was her coach in her first school who assisted her to apply to become a part of the LPU Taekwondo team. Gavin wanted to succeed in her studies and when the opportunity of studying in LPU knocked at her door she welcomed it with open arms.
“Honestly speaking, my only purpose here in Manila is to finish my studies so that I can help my parents in Bacolod,” the rookie player said. “The benefits of being a student-athlete is nice because this is the only way to sustain my education through the sport of Taekwondo,” she added. For her first competition as a Pirate, the 19-year-old rookie player bagged a gold last October 15, 2016 in the NCAA season 92 against San Beda College. She also won against Arellano University (AU). She called her win as a “miracle” because her opponent from AU was a three-peat gold medalist in their category and she recounted that even her seniors lost against that said opponent. “It was not me who played that game, God used me to win that game,” Gavin said. The game was followed by De La Salle – College of St. Benilde (CSB) and once again defeated her opponent. Her championship game was against San Beda College (SBC), where she conquered and bagged the gold medal. Gavin said, she will still exert extra time and effort to do some training to hone her skills in Taekwondo.
Furthermore, she wants to improve the unity of the Taekwondo team and build a family-like bond, bringing home the championship in the next season. Pauline Gavin wanted to remind the students of God’s words. “‘And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.’, from Roman, 8:28, and Ecclesiastes, 3:1 ‘To Everything there is a season; There is an appointed time for everything.’ Kung para sayo yung isang bagay, kapag pinanghawakan mo, kapag oras mo na ibibigay talaga ni Lord sayo yun,” Gavin stated.
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“Huwag kang bumitiw sa pangarap mo,”
MA LUI SA JAVI E R 29 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
TAKING ONE GOAL
Luisa Javier’s heart for taekwondo By Carla Shane N. Atim
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he started as a rookie, now she leads the team. Ma Luisa Javier is a 4th year Tourism
However, aside from her big goal of putting up her own gym, she wants people to know her as a humble, and approachable person who really loves her sport— Taekwondo. To her, giving up is not in her vocabulary, because faith and determination makes everything possible. “Huwag kang bumitiw pangarap mo,” she said.
sa
Luisa Javier started playing Taekwondo in high school and because she was looking for a scholarship, trying out for a sport in LPU was the answer. She eventually became an athlete scholar of the university.
student and the current team captain of the Pirates Women’s Taekwondo team, which became the 1st runner up for this year’s NCAA Taekwondo Tournament, while the men’s team earned the 2nd runner-up spot in the said tournament. She started racing towards her dream and still wants to pursue her passion until the end. Captain Luisa sees herself as a successful Taekwondo player and plans to build a gym someday to train others inspired to take the challenge. “Siguro magpatayo ako ng gym para habang nagta-trabaho ako nakikita ko pa rin kung saan ako nanggaling and kung saan ako nagmula,” said Javier.
means and dedicating her career to God. Luisa’s goals as a player for her school and competing in other countries is slowly fading away as she graduates from college this year. However, she still managed to have a positive point of view in life. She contributed to the team by advising them to stay positive despite the trials they face and to have faith in God and in themselves, while the rest is up to them.
That is why she has the will to play for the Philippine Taekwondo team, and she said she will do her very best for the tryouts. She’s aiming to graduate and have a steady job someday with her degree and focus more on what she studied in LPU. Moreover, playing Taekwondo took her to her dreams and made her aim to what she really wants in life. She keeps pacing on her Taekwondo track for her parents to help them in any
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“Medyo kabado ako kasi first [time] ko maglaro sa NCAA. Medyo kinakabahan pa. Iba pa yung laro. Pero dahil sa teammates ko [at] coaches, sinasabi nila na wag ako kabahan para ‘di mawala yung laro. Focus lang. Ibigay lang lahat ng makakaya,”
JAMES MANSUETO
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From the Cordilleras to Manila:
Football Rookie takes Baguio high By Timothy Gerard P. Gucilatar
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ith each kick of the ball in an epic journey from Baguio’s Burnham Park to the streets of Intramuros, James Mansueto was destined to be a Lycean from the very beginning. He graduated at the Baguio National High School before joining LPU in 2014 to study Bachelor of Science in Cruise Line Operations in Hotel Services (BSCLOHS), and he eventually joined the Pirates Football team. Back in elementary school, he was encouraged by his cousin to play football. “Since elementary, [back when I was in] grade 3, [I started playing football]. Dahil sa pinsan ko natuto ako mag football,” Mansueto said.
and the Cordillera Goshen Land NCAA Season 92 after reaching Football Club. final four for the first time. Despite his experience in joining local tournaments, the NCAA is a different atmosphere for Mansueto.
The Pirates team won the fourth spot after Arellano University gained victory against them with a score of 4-0 on January 18 “Medyo kabado ako kasi first at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. [time] ko maglaro sa NCAA. MeHowever, this does not disdyo kinakabahan pa [kami]. Iba tract their aim to earn a higher pa yung laro. Pero dahil sa team- place next season. mates ko [at] coaches, sinasabi nila na wag ako kabahan para ‘di mawala yung laro. Focus lang. Ibigay lang lahat ng makakaya,” he said.
That cousin of his is none other than Amadeo Dalisay, an alumThis footnus who was a LPU Footballer ball player from earlier than Mansueto. Baguio says that joining the “Dahil sa pinsan ko, na-ennational team courage ako na mag-tryout dito sa school [LPU]. Every Sunday is his goal. pag mamamasyal kami, nagda- “Binibigay ko [para] dala kami ng bola tapos dun na lahat mag-champikami maglalaro sa may Burnham on kami. Yun [Park],” Mansueto added. ang goal naMansueto once played in the min; na magCash Sense Junior Soccer Cup champion kami where he and his teammates sa NCAA.” bagged the championship last The LPU 2011 in Parañaque. He was then Football team involved in various football tournaments and with organizations made its way like the Cordillera Football Team to the top in
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“Kahit na magaling ka mag football, kung wala kang attitude, wala ka ring mararating sa buhay”.
JAMES DOREGO
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Team Captain on the GO! By Dorothea M. Pagayunan
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t all started when his friends invited him to play on the soccer field when he was in fourth grade. Now, he dominates and rushes to take the title of the NCAA football championship for the Pirates to take the lead and win the game. The LPU Football Team Captain James Paul Dorego, a 4th year Cruise Line Operation Culinary Arts (CLOCA) student, shared that he started playing football when he was in elementary school. Since then, when he entered LPU on his first year, he joined the LPU Pirates Football Team. The team captain leads the team by being in charge of the team’s strategy and unity when they compete in tournaments. He also looks at the official rules in every game. In football, the team captain is also known as a skipper. He provides the rallying point for the team and boosts their spirits whenever they are at the lowest point of their lives. Dorego seeks to have a stable job and participate in a national team or in a professional league in the Philippines in the future. One of those said leagues is the United Football League Philippines (UFL). Meanwhile, when Dorego was asked on how he will improve his skills after graduating, he said it is all about learning on what the right mood to take for each game. “Siguro yung tinuturo sa amin ni coach, ‘di naman puro football, tinuturuan din kami nung mabuting asal at yung sa attitude kasi dun yun magrereflect nung pagkatao mo,” he said. “Kahit na magaling ka mag-football, kung wala kang attitude, wala ka ring mararating sa buhay.”
Moreover, Dorego told that his supportive family, teammates and coaches are some of the factors for motivating himself more in his football career.
“As a football player gusto kong ibigay lahat para sa school. Gusto kong bigyan ng pride yung school sa bawat laro na nilalaro namin,” Dorego emphasized.
ing his profession, Dorego mentioned that his football career will be one of the options. He also wants to base his livelihood on the degree he gets after he graduates.
Lastly, when it comes to choos-
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“Well, there’s never a reason not to [do your best even if you’re tired] kasi pinili mo mapunta sa kalagayan na ‘yan eh.”
JOS E PH DELA CRUZ
JA EKA DENI S E F RIAS 35 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
E
Frias and Dela Cruz:
Shooting beyond the game By Chloie Angela Marie M. Isler
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he Pirates’ Soft and Lawn Tennis team is a small team which consists of four men and three women players who won the 9th and 7th place spot in the recent NCAA Lawn Tennis Tournament respectively, while the women’s team ranked the 7th spot in the Soft Tennis Tournament. Their recent achievement did not only bring honor to the team, and to the school, but it also gave an opportunity for some players to shine. Some of these players are Joseph Dela Cruz, a second-year student under the College of Business Administration (CBA) who stood out in the Lawn Tennis tournament, and Jaeka Denise Frias, who became a top soft tennis performer among the Pirates. She is a sophomore student under the College of International Relations (CIR). Being a responsible student is already a tiring job but having to deal with training sessions and games while representing the university is a whole new level of pressure for the student athletes. Frias and Dela Cruz are not just good tennis players, but they are also responsible students. Both of them are willing to choose their studies over playing ev-
ery time. According to them, their Coach Deena Rose Cruz and Asst. Coach Cheryl Macasera never fail to remind them to prioritize their studies. It may be contributed to the fact that they will not be allowed to play in the NCAA if they have failing grades, and that they have a good schedule when it comes to training and attending classes. It is inevitable to feel weary at times and be overwhelmed by the pressure coming from both the academic and varsity life. But Frias said that having an optimistic mind-set is the key to overcome the struggle whenever they become exhausted from studying and playing the sport. In addition, she said that sometimes all they can do is accept the fact that it’s their “off day”. “Well, there’s never a reason not to [do your best even if you’re tired] kasi pinili mo mapunta sa kalagayan na ‘yan eh. So wala, ka talagang choice,” Frias remarked. Playing tennis is a passion that has become a lifestyle. Frias chose tennis over any other sport to focus on because her mom taught her to play it ever since she was a child. Meanwhile, Dela Cruz stated it was the only sport that he has a potential in. The will to graduate and their families are their inspiration to keep playing tennis up until now. Humility is the key to their success, when asked how they wanted to be remembered in their sports career. They were both taken back and was quite embarrassed when they were asked. It was obvious that they never considered themselves as the best players. They are just ordinary dreamers who are hitting two birds with one stone by using something they are passionate about as a stepping stone for their bright future. The two athletes have different perspectives on how they would like to spend their days the moment they leave the walls of LPU. Their career in sports seems a bit bleak as Dela Cruz answered with certainty that he will not pursue a career in tennis and that he would rather look for a job to secure financial stability. In addition, he is convinced that he would no longer hone
his skills on tennis after he graduated. On the other hand, Frias is a bit conflicted on what path to choose. She said that she would like to run after a career base from her course mentioning that her mom encourages her to go to Law school. According to her, chances are low in the field of sports. Despite that, a part of her is unwilling to let go of tennis, saying that if opportunities knock on her door, then she might continue to pursue. She added that she is still willing to hone her skills in playing tennis if ever they got accepted in the training pool of the Philippine team in tennis. Uncertainty clouds their vision of pursuing tennis after graduation because of various reasons. Frias cited several unforeseeable factors that may happen along the way like getting an injury, reaching the age where they can no longer play and be replaced by younger, more skilled players. Losing the satisfaction from playing tennis can also be a factor. Above all, their main rationale for choosing a career related to their respective courses is the instability that comes from being an athlete.
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“Nung nasa ibang school ako, hindi ko nakita ‘yung sarili ko as [a] competitive athlete. Dito [sa LPU] nakikita ko ‘yung pagiging tunay na athlete—may tiwala sa sarili, disiplina, may tiwala sa turo ng coach,”
CHARLIE TA L I C UA D 37 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
TRACKSTAR ON THE RISE By Jerico P. Fania
“K
aya ko rin ‘yan,” mumbled the innocent Charlie Talicuad, who was only a fifth grader, when he first chanced upon their school’s track and field tryouts. Hailing from the picturesque province of Ilocos Sur, Talicuad has been running track since he was still in high school. But it was only until 2015 that he got the attention he truly deserved. His skills captured the interest of Arellano University’s coach, which later offered him a residency. During his stint with Arellano, Talicuad felt like being an athlete was shallow—and being tagged kayo dito, dito kayo gagaling,” Taas one was just a mere title, so he licuad recounted. left. But with LPU, his respect for And improve he did. In just a the sport was renewed. span of one year, Talicuad already “Nung nasa ibang school ako, bagged two silver medals from hindi ko nakita ‘yung sarili ko as [a] competing in the recent Philippine competitive athlete, dito [sa LPU] Amateur Track and Field Assonakikita ko ‘yung pagiging tunay ciation (PATAFA) meets. Although na athlete—may tiwala sa sarili, one might argue that he—being disiplina, may tiwala sa turo ng a great athlete—had it coming, Talicuad also attributed his great coach,” he said. success to his coaches’ persisHe also revealed that it was tence and determination during thanks to his teammate that he training. met LPU’s Coach Anselmo De “Yung tiyaga ng coach namin, Guzman. ang tiyaga [na tinuturo] sa amin ay “’Yung teammate ko nakilala kumbaga, nagbubunga naman,” niya ‘yung si Coach Butchoy at Talicuad shared. Coach Anselmo De Guzman. TaOne of Talicuad’s remarkable pos si Coach Anselmo, kinuha niya ako dito. Sabi niya ‘lalakas traits is his irrefutable camaraderie
with his teammates. He shared, almost laughingly, that they liked taking group pictures. “Pag tumatakbo kami mahilig kaming mag-picture,” he recalled. Talicuad is also a self-confessed bookworm. When he’s not running track or finishing his academic deadlines, he reads. “Yung mga binabasa ko ‘yung mga about sa history kasi mahilig ako sa history and [pati na rin] geography.” In a sea of urban competitors, Talicuad—being an impressive athlete and a man of immense discipline and unfazed focus proves that ‘probinsyanos’ are surely a force to be reckoned with.
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“Kung wala si God hindi natin magagawa yung mga bagay na dapat gawin natin,”
RONNE MA L I PAY 39 POWERPLAY MAGAZINE
RUNNING TO THE FINISH LINE Ronne Malipay’s track in the field By Diana Theresa I. Encarnacion
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t’s been four years since Ronne Malipay, the star player of the Pirates Track and Field Team, began sprinting across many paths to triumph. He is currently a 4th year student taking Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Business Management (BSBA-BM). However, Malipay proved that he is more than just a student. He dominated the national stage as well, as he dashed his way to becoming a trainee for the National Team. Aside from maintaining his grades, Malipay trained hard in his sport so he can be qualified for a particular game. “Ngayon mas hahasain ko muna yung sports ko kasi member ako ng National Team, kasi ngayon naghahabol din ako ng qualifying for [the] SEA [Southeast Asian] games,” Malipay said. “Siyempre yung course ko na matatapos ko ngayon or someday,” He answered, when asked about prioritizing sports and academics. “Kasi di naman habang buhay naging-up ka, naglalaro ka.” He also said that while he is still young and physically fit, he will still focus on his favorite sport.
This triggered their capacity to train harder and aim higher in the competition. “Dun mas nagpursigi kami na mas makilala kami ng iba’t ibang school.” He said. “Sa Philippines mas nakilala kami na, ‘Ay, meron palang mas malakas na athlete na ganyan sa LPU.’”
The track and field star player would like to be remembered as a strong athlete who is recognized by teams that compete in the national level. For them, it is delightful to see that there’s someone in another team who is strong and comparable to the top players of the game.
He recalled a memory when they were offered to be part of the training. They were playing in NCAA and their performance was at par with that of with the National Team. He added that it was an opportunity that they needed since they’re still studying, and the allowance and benefits given to varsity players would really help for him.
Malipay led his team by pushing them to strive further, and he did this by serving as a role model for them by being someone who has achieved so much, yet remained humble.
His enjoyment in training and devotion to God are the reasons why he continues honing his skills. “Kung walang training di mo mapupursigi yung sports mo,” he added. He noted that his inspirations include, first and foremost, God, his family, coaches and his team, as well as the people he meets every day. “Kung wala si God hindi natin magagawa yung mga bagay na dapat gawin natin,” Malipay explains.
His advice for his teammates is to put their studies first, avoid laziness, and to stay modest. Malipay’s Coach Reynante Giron, said Malipay is someone who works hard towards his goals, finish his studies and represents LPU. During trainings, Malipay is someone who has the initiative. Ronnie wanted to focus on his studies in order to finish it for his family. He is also grateful to LPU for giving him an opportunity to showcase his talent. Aside from that, he hopes to join the Philippine Airforce League (PAL) in the future.
Recently, Malipay won a gold medal on the Triple Jump 15.17m event during the 92nd season of the NCAA Track and Field tournament, where the Pirates Team earned the 7th spot in the rankings. He also won two gold medals during the 91st season of the said competition. In addition, he bagged two silver medals, one of which he won from the Philippine National Game, and the other from the National Opening. Ronne also brought home a gold medal at the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (PATAFA). When asked what game is the highlight of his career, he said, “Last NCAA season, hindi namin inakala na yung performance namin mas mataas pa sa ibang members ng National Team.”
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“[Gusto namin] makasabay sa ibang school na drummer maging malakas na drummer sa buong NCAA,”
LAMBE RTO SAYS ON I I I
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Sayson III:
The unexpected drummer By Tammy Cattleya B. Delos Reyes
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his is a classic story of how one finds passion accidentally. It all started when Lamberto T. Sayson III was in his freshman year. He attended a school activity wherein he saw the LPU Drum Squad performed. He never planned to study in LPU nor even join the drum squad but he became part of them nonetheless.
in him. He never thought that this make their own mark and be one could be his new home and family. of the best drummer in NCAA.
Lamberto shared that when he was asked the reason for joining the drum squad, he said he was inspired by his cousin who joined the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) drum squad, and wanted to be part of the Pirates family. True enough, the love for LPU, his coach and team members grew
athletic life which resulted to failing some of his classes, hardships in training and some lapses in performing for the team. However, the thought of leaving the Drum Squad never crossed his mind.
“Tingin ko sa kanila [ay] parang isang pamilya, kapatid at tropa na pwede mong malapitan kung may problema ka saka solid kasi talaga sila kasama pero siyempre kahit ganun yung tingin ko hindi ko pa rin kinakalimutan yung limitation ko na may seniority kami Since experience is not re- na sinusunod,” Lamberto said quired before joining, he still on how he sees his colleagues planned to play for the team. He at the Pirates Drum Squad. said when he was starting out, he He became close to his teamwould go to the gym extra early mates by spending time with them to approach seniors and prac- every day, including his break time. tice before the actual training. “Basta sumama ka lang sa For Sayson III, training is es- kanila o marunong kang makisasential for any rookie. He believes ma, papakisamahan ka rin nathat acquiring a skill is great but man nila saka [‘pag] nirespeto being trainable is another level. mo sila bilang mas higher batch More than just acquiring skill, sayo, okay na,” Sayson III said he learned to have perseverance, on how easy it is to get along discipline and dedication on this with the Pirates Drum Squad. field. “Isang taon ko na ang pagigThere are times that joining the ing trainee. Binuhos ko talaga ha- Pirates made his time in LPU diffilos lahat ng oras,” Sayson III said cult for him due to the necessity to on his commitment to the Pirates. balance both his academic life and
“[Gusto namin] makasabay sa ibang school na drummer, at maging malakas na drummer sa buong NCAA,” he said, when asked on his personal goals when he joined the drum squad. Joining the Pirates Drum Squad may not be in Sayson’s plan for his time with LPU, but he intends to stay nonetheless. He hones his skills with the drums by beating it in every game to ensure that hymn of the Lyceans will echo to players, and fans alike.
When asked about his dream for the team, Sayson III shared that he wants the LPU Drum Squad to
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CLARISSE PEREZ “You can push through beyond your limits.”
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Stepping outside the box with Clarisse Perez By Phoebe Cates B. Eguico
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o execute tosses, chants, and cheering routines was not in her plan at all. Clarisse Perez once envisioned herself singing her heart out with the LPU chorale before she found her way to cheerleading. But once she watched a pep squad perform with somersaults, jumps and stunts, it sparked her interest in cheerleading. Experience-wise, Perez did not have as much as most aspiring athletes and cheerleaders. But she surely has the valor to push through her limits, taking a huge step out of her comfort zone. During her first year in the academe, her only primary focus is her academics and has decided to venture to other fields of interest during her second year. “Hindi ko inexpect na mag eenjoy ako kaya tinuloy tuloy ko na,” Perez said. Cheerleading has not only caused her joy, it also taught her great life lessons such as breaking down her walls and believing that she can do more. “You can push through beyond your limits,” she said as she was once frightened with the tosses. Time management may be the millennials’ greatest nemesis but for Perez, cheerleading challenged her managerial ability and decision-making. This challenges her to find the perfect balance between the academe and extra-cur-
ricular activities. As being part of he team, she emphasized the importance of respect for harmonious relationship between members as well as the sense of hard work to put up an outstanding performance and succeed. “[When it comes to] teamwork in pep squad, it’s not just about pom-poms, building pyramids, stunts and gymnastic. It’s all about the passion to cheer, to help each other to get that specific skill and grow as one,” Perez said.
“Malaking tulong ang naiambag ng mga seniors ko, lalo na si Coach Zar Semsem dahil sa pagkatao ko at lalo na sa mga pagtuturo ng mga skills.” She recently competed in her first NCAA Cheerleading competition as a member of the LPU Pep Squad on March 9, 2017 where they got the 7th spot in the overall rankings. “Sana makapasok ang LPU sa NCAA’s top three during my playing years,” Perez said.
Their teamwork “takes place all the time whenever we’re off or on the mats,” From the cheering stunts, up to their academes, they got each other’s backs, making Perez feel like they are her family away from home. Within her two-year stay in the university, she can confidently say that she is happy, mostly about the opportunity that has opened for her.
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The Sound of Sports By Mariztela Alyssa Quirubim R. Domasian Did you listen to a song and got you moving to the beat with the feeling you can conquer everything? We all know music defined a lot of cultures throughout the years. It has been involved in many things that changed the course of history such as the hymn used for battles and wars, the anthems of every nation, and the music that thrilled the entire arena of baseball fans as they watch their favorite team dominate the scene. In a sport event or competition, you hear “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor blasting out. This song is known to be a remarkable sports song ever since but there are more songs that are quite deeper and are inspired from athletes and famous sports. Here are some astounding songs about sports and athletes. Basketball Jones by Cheech & Chong With a little touch of comedy, this song is about a toddler who was the best dribbler in their town and grew up obsessed with the sport. The artists, along with a friend, actor Jack Nicholson, planned to go to a Lakers game and were stuck in the actor’s car during traffic. While waiting, the song “Love Jones” came on the radio and Cheech started improvising the tune and added in some lyrics.
The Duke by Blind Melon The song was inspired by Duke Kahanamoku, a famous Hawaiian surfer. Blind Melon came across with the statue of “The Duke” on Waikiki Beach and got the idea for the song. According to Blind Melon Guitarist, Christopher Thorn, he and their lead singer, Shannon Hoon wrote the song because, “I was trying to create the feeling of surfing and floating in the water with that music.”
Pambansang Kamao by Dcoy feat. Artstong, E.SP., Nathan J This is a nice rap song about the Philippines’ Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. The group of artists made this song to appreciate the “Pambansang Kamao” for bringing great honor to the country. The song mentioned a lot of Pacquiao’s journey towards his life today.
Lalaban Ako Para sa Filipino by Manny Pacquiao
This song was sung by Pacman himself and is about how he will bring honor to his country and to his fellow countrymen. This was the boxer’s entrance song during his fight with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. on May 2015.
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Magic Johnson by Red Hot Chili Peppers Red Hot Chili Pepper wrote this song about L.A. Lakers’ star player Magic Johnson in order to reflect their admiration to him. The band is known to be a fan of Los Angeles Lakers and basketball and one member, Flea, was often seen playing pickup games around the city.
Speed by Avicii This song is heavily inspired by the Grand Prix drivers and is about how they feel behind the wheels as they drive to win the title – the thrill of pushing yourself further into the track and the excitement mixed with anxiety as you compete with other drivers.
Take A Knee by SiNiCal This song was made by rapper and producer SiNiCal to voice out his message to support for San Francisco 49ers quarterback Collin Kaepernick. In 2016, Kaepernick protested the treatment of police officers to the minorities by kneeling during the national anthem. People saw this motion as rude but later on, he was joined by other athletes in his campaign.
Chicken Fat by Robert Preston This jolly song was made to help the former American president, John F. Kennedy, in his campaign to get the American youth into shape as part of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness. This song is also known as “The Youth Fitness Song” and was heard in gym classes in the 60’s and 70’s.
A Warrior’s Call by Volbeat This track is dedicated to Danish boxing champion, Mikkel Kessler. In his Super Six Tournament, Kessler needed a song for entering the ring and used this music by Volbeat who is a big boxing fan. This song reflects Kessler’s dominance in the Danish boxing scene.
Liga ng mga Bida by Abra ft. AYA of Project Pinas
A song sung by a famous Filipino rapper and about how fun and exciting Filipino basketball is since it is one of the most watched sports event in the Philippines. This song was used as the theme song of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in season 2015-2016.
Beyond the Score Board What does it take to be a great coach By Phoebe Cates B. Eguico
What makes up a champ is not all about burning passion and glory. Every good player needs a good mentor who will help each of them to grow and reach their full potential. Coaches, who often do not share the same spotlight as their players, are rather evaluated through the most uncontrollable factor of winning or losing. They are exposed to everyone’s criticism even to those who are clueless about his or her job as a coach, the players and the team’s goal. Words from the coaches go beyond the track, field and court. What they teach – bearing hardships, handling failures, trusting teammates, earning sportsmanship and making sacrifices has an impact to each player’s lives. Here are some pointers in order for a good coach to be a great one. Inspire, motivate and encourage Great coaches inspire and motivate their players to push through their limits and believe in themselves. They help each player develop confidence in what they can achieve, not only as a team but also as an individual. The use of encouragement and healthy criticism are necessary in order to build up self-esteem and not self-doubt. Understanding individual differences An effective coach understands that each athlete possesses different attitudes and personalities as well as their sensitivity and how they handle criticisms. Building personal relationships instead of a trainer-trainee relationship with the players will also boost their confidence and loyalty as well as improve the coaching techniques. Tailoring his/her coaching technique A coach must be able to adjust his or her teaching style based on the player’s needs. Pressure might bring a person to work but discourage his teammates. What works for a player maybe detrimental to the other. Observations must be part of the coach’s routine to determine the best and most effective approach for every player. Knowing that role-modeling is the best way of teaching Walk the talk. Demonstrating the qualities the players must adapt is an effective way to put teachings into action. Lead an example.
Becoming a great communicator Great coaches know that communication is a two-way road. He or she must be open to feedbacks and able to listen to their athletes. Not only it will help the coach learn and adjust his or her coaching techniques. It will also improve the relationship between the coach and the players. Know how to make sports fun Games are meant to be fun. Players who have an impatient coach tend to worry on making a mistake throughout the duration of the game. Having fun during training sessions and actual games won’t harm anyone. Get their head in the game with a smile on their face.
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THE FUTURE OF eSports:
GOING BEYOND ATHLETICISM
By Timothy Gerard P. Gucilatar
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he League of Legends (LoL) 2016 World Championship distributed $5,070,000 to its participants. Korean team SK Telecom T1 won first place, receiving a cash prize of more than two million dollars. This is according to the community-driven gaming source known as “eSports Earnings.”
to 303 million by 2019. The current market size of eSports is $892M. 74% percent of that comes from sponsorship and advertising. A large percentage of the prize pools come from revenues of in-game contents that players can purchase.
The Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBA) have become the modernday sporting events for both male and female gamers.
In a report from SuperData Research, Asia claims to be the current leader in the global eSports market with $328M in revenues. This rank is then followed by North America ($275M) and Europe ($269M).
The Oxford Dictionary defines sport as “an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.”
With the growing investments on eSports and its increasing popularity, there are universities who have started to establish scholarship programs for their eSports athletes.
“Physical exertion” doesn’t really count like it does for chess, but it is how players execute fluent team plays and strategic ganks that made eSports a competitive game despite mobilizing only the fingers and the eyes. It takes mental effort to achieve victory in these battle arenas.
The Robert Morris University in Chicago, Illinois is the first American university who added online gaming to their athletic program and provided scholarships to its team. Those who qualified will earn scholarships of up to 50% for their education and another 50% off on room and board costs to be shouldered by the school.
Worldwide competitions engorged the fan base of e-sports. Today, there are two highly anticipated games leading the hype with its roster of players and cash prizes. Players from Asia have so far become its best players. From 2014 to 2016, Asian contingents like SKT T1 and other Chinese and South Korean teams consistently earned their place in the top three. SK Telecom T1 was also victorious at the 2015 World Championship. Back then, it only had a two-million-dollar prize pool and the South Korean team earned a million dollars. Another tournament, The International 2016 of the Defense of the Ancients (Dota 2), had a prize pool of $20,770,640. It was the largest prize pool in the history of e-sports. Chinese team Wings Gaming received more than nine million dollars for their victory. According to SuperData Research, the worldwide audience of eSports will increase from 214 million of 2016
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There are other scholarship programs with stricter qualifications while others are not so. eSports in the Philippines In the Philippines, despite the growing success of eSports, higher education institutions have yet to take the risk and discover its potential. However, eSports is still quite popular to Filipinos, and there are those who made a livelihood out of it. During last year’s The International, which is a Dota 2 tournament, Filipino team TnC Gaming hit eighth place and earned $519,262 after beating Team OG. This amounts to more than 23 million pesos. Earlier that year, Team OG won The Manila Major 2016 and earned more than a million dollars from a prize pool of $3M.
But aside from these international tournaments, there are also inter-collegiate competitions that players participate in. Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) Vindicators ESports Club lost in last year’s League of Legends International Collegiate Championships. Prior to that, they clinched the victory in the LoL Collegiate League after beating Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU). While there is definitely more support to eSports athletes coming from some parts of Asia and other western states, the hype is far from seeing more Filipino athletes in the arena. Only a few has recognized the economic potential of online gaming. Hopefully, millennials will live through that day when eSports will be televised live and a promising Filipino contingent will represent the country on the top four of international championships. Oh, and how does that “eSport varsity player” sound?
TABATA: THE 4-MINUTE EXERCISE-SLASH-MIRACLE By Jerico P. Fania Do you find yourself too busy to even care about your physique? Have you been itching to shake off those inches and pounds you gained over the holidays? Fret not, here’s a simple 4-minute, fat-blasting and muscle-toning exercise regimen you can do practically anywhere.
THE TABATA
In ‘70s Tokyo, a team of exercise scientists and researchers led by Dr. Izumi Tabata administered a study on two groups of athletes. The researchers had the groups do what they do best--training. The contrast? The first group trained at a moderate level while the second, at a high-intensity level. The groups also trained at different times, with the first group working out for five days a week; each workout lasting an hour while the high-intensity team trained for just four minutes (with a 10-second resting period in between sets) for four consecutive days. Both teams’ workout sessions spanned six weeks. The results were staggering: the first group showed an increase in their cardiovascular (aerobic) system--which was expected because of the strenuous training they’ve undergone--but exhibited little to no activity in their muscular (anaerobic) system. On the other hand, group 2 manifested a great increase in both aerobic and anaerobic systems. The verdict? Training at a high-intensity level produces a greater impact on both weight loss and muscle building than regular workouts.
THE REGIMEN
The best thing about Tabata (aside from it being a literal 4-minute miracle) is that you can be flexible about choosing the exercise you want to do. Most opt to just sprint on a treadmill, go stationary biking, or skip ropes for 20 seconds straight. But to start you off, here’s a quick Tabata interval: Jump Squats - Stand with your feet apart. Always remember to keep your spine straight. Start by doing a regular squat, then contract your core and jump up, swinging your arms back as you’re suspended. Your landing should look like a regular squat. Do this for 20 seconds.
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T-Planks - Assume a standard push-up position. Keep you back straight and your butt out. Rotate your torso by lifting one arm up, facing the side of your raised arm. Do the same for the other arm. Do this for 20 seconds.
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Mountain Climbers - As with Tplanks, start by assuming a standard push-up position. Pull one knee up toward your midsection then back. Repeat with the other knee. Do this for 20 seconds.
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Lunges - Start with picking a point to stare at so you don’t lower your head. Keep your chin up, upper body straight, and your shoulders relaxed. As with squats, remember to always engage your core. Take a big--but not too big--step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. Go back to your starting position and do the same with the other leg. Do this for 20 seconds.
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Do all these for 20 seconds straight with a 10-second resting period between each exercise. Make sure you complete eight sets.
There you have it, folks, your own Tabata workout. Don’t be afraid to spruce up your workouts by changing the exercises when you feel like you’ve outgrown them. And remember: the moment you’re feeling nauseous and out-of-breath, that’s when you know you’re doing it correctly. POWERPLAY MAGAZINE 48
2017: A promising year in sports
Special Olympics World Winter Games Date: March 14-March 25, 2017 Venue: Graz and Schladming, Austria For over 40 years, the Special Olympics organization has given athletes with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to succeed in sports by conducting the Special Olympics World Games, a biennial event that switches between Summer and Winter Games. The organization has 4.4 million athletes from 170 countries including the Philippines who will compete in nine games namely, Alpine Skiing, Cross-country skiing, Floorball, Floor Hockey, Short track speed skating, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, and Speedskating. During the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles, United States the Philippines collected 64 medals, 24 of which are gold.
World Baseball Classic 2017 Date: March 9 to 22, 2017 Venue: Varies (Rounds 1 and 2) Los Angeles, California, USA (Finals) For the baseball fans out there, this one is for you. Organized by the International Baseball Federation, different baseball teams from all around the world will compete with one another in the diamond to select the 16 teams who will compete in the finals in order to determine the champion. This is the 4th iteration of the event, where the last tournament was on 2013 held at San Francisco, USA where the Dominican Republic won after beating Puerto Rico. The Philippines lost at the preliminary qualifiers after taking a loss from both Australia and New Zealand.
By Francis Felix C. Falgui 2016 may have come and passed, leaving us with historic events in sports especially in the Philippines such as Hidilyn Diaz bringing home a silver medal in weightlifting at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and The People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao’s victory against Timothy Bradley, and Jesse Vargas. However, the epic milestones of sports showed no signs of slowing down, as 2017 is not only the year for the 93rd season of the NCAA and the 80th season of the UAAP, it is also filled with upcoming sporting events that will give opportunities for athletes to bring home the bacon, and for the fans to gaze in awe. So, mark your calendars as the following events will shape the sporting world this year!
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WWE Wrestlemania 33 Date: April 2, 2017 Venue: Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida Meanwhile, in the world of professional wrestling, World Wrestling Entertainment will conduct its flagship PayPer-View (PPV) for the 33rd year in a row, featuring star-studded matches on its card such as Randy Orton vs Bray Wyatt for the WWE World Championship, and Goldberg vs Brock Lesnar for the WWE Universal Championship, it is their second time to face one another on the said event, the first being in Wrestlemania XX back in 2004 where Goldberg defeated Lesnar.
Palarong Pambansa 2017 Date: April 10 to 16, 2017. Venue: San Jose de Buenavista City, Antique Province The 60th edition of Palarong Pambansa which is organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) features Eighteen student athletes representing their own athletic associations, and regions will face one another in 18 sports and disciplines, which now includes Futsal, a form of indoor soccer in order to gain athletic supremacy.
Philippine Football League Date: April, 2017 Venue: Various stadiums of the clubs registered to PFL across the Philippines Due to the rise of popularity of football here in the country especially after the success of the Philippine National team in the 2010 Suzuki Cup where they earned the fourth spot, and the need for a national football league in the country, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) announced the establishment of the Philippine Football League (PFL) in September 7, 2016. The PFL is set to replace the United Football League (UFL) as country’s top tier league with at least six teams from around the country would participate in it, they even invited clubs from the UFL. As of November 2016, five teams are confirmed to participate in the PFL, namely Stallion, Kaya, Loyola, Global, and Ceres. In it will only have a single division on its debut season where players will compete in a home-and-away, double round-robin format where the competitors will face the other participants once as the home team and once as the away team.
NBA Playoffs and Finals Date: April 15 – May 29, 2017 (Playoffs) June 1–18, 2017 (Finals) Venue: Home courts of the participants across the U.S. The National Basketball Association (NBA) which is the biggest basketball league in North America will also leave their mark in its 71st season with their playoffs in June where 16 teams from both eastern and western conferences will compete with one another in a best of seven elimination tournament in order to decide who will compete in the finals. The Cleveland Cavaliers is this season’s defending champions after they defeated the Golden State Warriors last season.
2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Date: Starts at March 17, 2017 Venue: Metro Manila The local scene of Philippine Basketball won’t be left behind by the other exciting events in sports, as they conduct their Commissioner’s Cup for their 42nd season which took place after the Philippine Cup. In the said conference, 12 teams will play ball against one another for the championship, but they are allowed to recruit foreign players at their side with a 6’10” height limit.
IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) World Championships Date: August 4 to 13, 2017 Venue: London, United Kingdom
29th SEA Games
2017 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championships
Date: August 17 to 31, 2017 Venue: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: August 9 to 17, 2017 Venue: Metro Manila
The 10 countries in South East Asia will once again compete with one another for athletic supremacy in this biennial regional meet by competing in 405 events in 38 sports. The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) will send a small team to compete in the SEA Games. During the 2015 SEA games in Singapore, the Philippines ranked 6th by winning 29 gold, 36 silver, and 66 bronze medals.
The Philippines has an opportunity to prove what they are capable of in volleyball right in their own home turf as they compete in a women’s volleyball tournament, against 14 other teams from different parts of the world including countries from Central Asia, East Asia, Oceania, and Southeast Asia.
Organized by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), this biennial athletics event this competition includes 15 track events, and 9 field events for men, and 14 track events, and 8 field events for women. This event is also prominent because this is the eight-time gold medalist Usain Bolt’s final competition before he retires from his career as an athlete. Also, according to the Lasallian, Eric Cray who participated in the said competition back in 2015 seeks to join the competition again, in order to use the momentum to help him defend his title at the upcoming SEA games where he holds the record for the 400 meter hurdles.
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