What's College Like?: Bronze For Brawns.. Gold For Brotherhood

USJR 3oth University Days and Intramurals, Sept 16^th to 20^th 2014

– It was another time for students to square off for inter-college supremacy, and another moment to spend time mingling with new friends (and even with your crush). I would emphasize on the first as it was another fruitful year for the CAS Basketball team. 1 bronze medal. 4 wins. 15 players with the desire to win. Hundreds of undying supporters. Unlimited moments of firepower and laughter. What else to cherish when you have the people scream “C-A-S?”

And here are the most unforgettable lessons I that would willingly want to share with you:

1.) The passion to play will forever stay

Everyone’s hungry to get the win even when cramps happen. I remember Sean, Janus and most especially Concha (both legs) who suffered the worst cramps during the team’s first win in double overtime against the School of Law, 83-75.

Passion means enthusiasm; and enthusiasm gives you to play not for yourself, but for the team’s sake. One concrete example? Just see Brad and Janus’ dominance in the game.

2.) What’s in the court, stays in the court.

Got yelled at by your coach or team-mate? Oh, did your pride hit you? Nah, put those emotional setbacks aside. There shouldn’t be anything personal during the game. It’s the time to play for gold, not the time to get old. This week, you’re an athlete; next week, you’re back to reality – back to student life!

I even heard an altercation during a game between CICCT and School of Law, but I’m hopeful that that shall pass.

3.) Brotherhood is as precious as gold

I think I shall never see a brotherhood that’s lovely as my team (apologies to Joyce Kilmer). Yup, as what I’ve said in my video blog: It ain’t all about winning; it’s all about the brother we’ve developed. Nothing is as priceless as when you see the entire team go out and compete during the game, but act like lunatics after serious post-game huddles.

4.) Hardwork is also found beyond the basketball court

You heard it right. The entire CAS Basketball Team gives credit to the practice players who have spent their time to join us in practices despite that they didn’t have incentives except for post-practice bonding.

Me organizing the team – reminding fellow players of their monetary and basketball obligations, setting up practice schedules, etc. – is probably the most tiresome job, but it’s a fulfilling moment when they get to thank you for your off-the-court work ethics.

5.) Win or lose, teammates

I don’t mind not getting the gold medal. What mattered to me the most was that I’m honored to be a piece of a group that recognizes your potentials and improves your flaws; a person’s victory is everyone’s triumph; a teammate’s downfall is another lesson to learn. Enough said.

The University Days & Intramurals isn’t just limited to leisure, but also of words of wisdom. From the very first tryout until the last game, there are always dozens of moments worth sharing. There were times we got disappointed, but none of it matters. As long as we enjoyed this week-full event, as long as we laughed our hearts out, as long as we brought something that’s worth remembering for, nothing is as precious as friendships being valued. Enough said.

I am proud to acknowledge the following people who have greatly shown their enthusiasm to support the team all throughout:

-15 brave young men with matching jersey #’s:

(1) John Karl “Boy Tingsi” Dimasuhid

(2) Elbert Napao

(5) Elconjim Concha

(7) Necolle Duero

(9) Gerald “Brad” Pontanar – Team Captain

(13) Marchini Kong

(14) Jongjong Gingoyon

(15) James Savellon

(17) Carlo “Danielle Padilla” Samson

(19) Sean “Burger King” Espiritu

(26) Ed “Shofo” Naron

(27) Jazz “T**” Ortega

(28) Jaymier Rosada

(29) Kicker Pitao

(69) Janus “Jimmy Alapag” Ceniza

-Practice players: Joshua “Gwapo” Escalante, Phil Montefalcon, Giorgio Abellana, Alvin Rabadon

-Coaches: Mr Leo Aberion, Dr Galvin Galeon, Mr Jojit Foronda

-The avid supporters of the entire College of Arts and Sciences academic and sports competitors.

-The Purveyor (Gotta love your own) Resilient work, guys! Rabboni and his sports team, Apple, Princielo, Michaela, Mitzi, Milva, Janjafn, Keith, Dane, Yayoi, Beverly (PM me if I've forgotten someone)

Congratulation also to other CAS athletes and contestants for bringing home the bacon!