Let the Games Begin!

Forget about the pandemic scare brought about by A (H1N1) virus. Forget about the cause of Michael Jackson’s tragic and untimely death. Forget about the possibility of poll automation in 2010 election initiated by the partnership of Total Information Management Corporation (TIM) & Smartmatic. Move over, National Collegiate Athletic Association; let’s roll the red carpet for the opening of the 72nd edition of University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).



On Saturday, the eight participating teams will try to outclass each other once again in 15 sports lined up every season. Ateneo, La Salle, UE, FEU, UP, Adamson and NU attempts to break the string of 11 straight over-all championships by the University of Sto.Tomas.

I’m one of the many patrons of UAAP despite leaving University of the East in mid 90’s. I had a lot of fond memories with the sports institution that made me aware of its yearly festivities. I'm one of the 6 lucky applicants, out of 25 wannabes, who were accepted in our schools official student newspaper, DAWN. My first assignment was to cover the junior division in basketball (my wish granted). I thought covering basketball was a piece of cake. I realized that watching vehemently and waiting for outcome of the game is not enough. Knowledge in running score is a must. After several weeks, I was given a new task. This time, not just one but a handful of sports events were assigned to me. But being involved in this small organization gives me not only unforgettable experiences but privileges and advantages too. During my brief stint in news writing, I met different people in different walks of life. I had the opportunity to interview emerging basketball superstars Mark Telan and Gerard Francisco during their high school days. I also had the chance to witness first-hand the domination of Dennis Espino-led UST Growling Tigers and the up and coming play of NU Bulldog Danny Ildefonso. I went in and out of playing venues like Rizal Memorial Coliseum and Swimming pool area, Ninoy Aquino Stadium, UST gymnasium and even Bro. Athanasius gymnasium in Dela Salle Taft. Gatorade became my favourite drink since you can get it free from playing venues. From courtside to dug-out, I can go wherever I want using my Press ID. I also had a grand time talking with students from different universities where I met some new friends. As a student, being a writer benefits me a lot. My uniforms were kept in my closet because I can wear civilian clothes. I can easily have access to different colleges from U.E. Kalookan and Recto. But the biggest privilege I got is when my arnis professor in Physical Education exempted and gave me 1.25 without attending his class. After learning that he was a long-time national coach in gymnastics, I interviewed him. 2 weeks after, the article came out. He was so happy that now, many students recognized him.

UAAP’s founding members believed that student’s growth and development is not based solely on their academic stand point. Encouraging them to participate in different sports brings out their competitive nature, sportsmanship, immense talent and potential to excel in this field.

For the next 4 months we will be treated to nail-biting, nerve wracking and pulsating games only the Archer,Eagle, Warrior, Tiger, Maroon, Falcon, Tamaraw and Bulldog can offer.