Just Play Vol. 9

Writers The Official Sports Magazine of Heraldo Filipino

Editor Fernan Patrick Flores WRITERS Rose Kristine Amarillo, Ezekiel Coronacion, John Harold Dizon, Djoanna Nikole Javier, Keith Alvin Martinez, and John Zedrick Simeon CONTRIBUTOR John Paul Mari Abcede

Rose Kristine Amarillo

Ezekiel Coronacion

John Harold Dizon

Djoanna Nikole Javier

Keith Alvin Martinez

John Zedrick Simeon

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kathelyn Ann Bravo, Patricia Loise Lucero, Jose Mari Martinada, Brandon Ocenar, Roxanne Valerie Rasco, and Camille Trinidad ARTISTS Danna Claire Javier, Nicole Lunaria, Christian Mateo, John Chesleigh Nofiel, Wenchie Tacate, and Mikaela Torres LAYOUT ARTISTS Ricardo Martin Cabale, Camille Joy Gallardo, Danna Claire Javier, Nicole Lunaria, Christian Paul Macapagal, James Nielnard Mallari, Christian Mateo, Melissa Reynoso, and Mikaela Torres

ABOUT THE COVER

The cover features Patriot sprinter, Alvin Valdenarro. While collecting medals in the field of athletics, he is also included in the dean’s honor list for the first semester of AY 2015-2016.

COVER PHOTO BY Jose Mari Martinada

DESIGN BY Camille Joy Gallardo

editor’s noTE From thrilling battles inside the arenas, virtual action aired on televisions, printed updates in the newspapers, and up to the technological hype flashed on social media sites, we encounter different stories of athletes’ defeats and victories every day. But behind those outcomes, there’s a community that unites to show their support no matter what. Although this might not always be the case as with the bleacher situation of the University, it is never too late for the green-and-white bloods to banner the Patriot flag.

In the ninth issue of Just Play, be inspired by the Patriots’ stories of passion, determination, and perseverance of the most improved teams and athletes.

Witness the legacy of legendary former Patriot spikers, and chase the speed of the most inspiring athlete who set an outstanding record in both academics and athletics. Take a leap on the sports track with buzzerbeater stories, sports flashback, and athletic anatomical facts that will bring you a dash of action.

New challenges and hopes may come to this next generation of Patriots, but the important thing is showing unwavering passion along their journey to the finish line.

Fernan Patrick Flores

Sports Editor

CONTENTS On the cover THE HERALDO FILIPINO

The Official Student Publication of De La Salle University-DasmariĂąas

Founded: June 1985 Member, College Editors Guild of the Philippines Editorial Board AY 2015-2016

Daniella Shaira T. Cortez, Editor in Chief Krizza Mae M. Bautista, Associate Editor Cerisse C. Madlangbayan, Copy Editor Erika B. Uy, Office and Circulations Manager Katherine Anne C. Aboy, News Coordinator Anri Ichimura, Features Editor Danielle Vince D. Capuno, In charge, Literary Fernan Patrick R. Flores, Sports Editor Lynoelle Kyle E. Arayata, Art Director Jerome S. Quinto, Chief Photographer Ricardo Martin O. Cabale, Graphics and Layout Director Alphonse Leonard G. Topacio, Web Manager SENIOR STAFF Chandler Belaro, Jeff Treat Dimaano, Camille Joy Gallardo, Sheena Faye Lopez, Patricia Loise Lucero, Queenee Manaog, and Enrico Paolo Topacio JUNIOR STAFF Marco Belarmino, Kathelyn Ann Bravo, Lexzene Dela Cruz, Patricia Anne De Leon, John Paul Gonzales, Nishtha Nigam, Roxanne Valerie Rasco, Rochelle Rivera, and Wenchie Tacate Dr. Lakandupil C. Garcia, Adviser

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Ace of the aces

MORE The Heraldo Filipino has its editorial office at Room 213, Gregoria Montoya Hall (Administration Building) De La Salle University-DasmariĂąas, Cavite, Philippines 4115.

Telephone: +63 2 8447832, +63 46 416 4531 local 3063 Email: officialheraldofilipino@gmail.com Website: www.heraldofilipino.com Contributions, comments, suggestions, and signed letters should be addressed to the editor in chief.

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Where it all started

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The perfect scoop Breaching out the zone

Gliding through the odds

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FEATURED

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6 Gliding through the odds 10 Green and blue alliance 21 The spikers’ saga 30 The dash towards fitness

The dash towards fitness

IN EVERY ISSUE Standpoint: It’s a good time to be a Filipino sports fan

26 32 Bleachers 34 Health: A champion’s blueprint

F E AT U R E D

Gliding through the odds DLSU-D TANKERS AND THEIR ALL-OUT EFFORT Djoanna Nikole Javier and Keith Alvin Martinez Jose Mari Martinada

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Paddling in the waves of struggle, everything seems challenging especially winning a game, but the more you dream, the farther you get. With new head coach Vernon Himor setting out a new route, the DLSU-D tankers stick together to surpass their limits amid mishaps in their training and lack of players. Through vigorous training and determination, they enhance their skills and seek glory for the team.

Wave of resolution The DLSU-D swimming team, alongside coach Vernon, emerged on another stepping stone as they sail to improve themselves as athletes. The former national player encourages his players to work hard through rigid trainings while setting their minds with the benefits of time management.

During his time as a varsity player, he expressed that time management became the key to his successful career.

As the new mentor, coach Vernon continues to apply the usual training routines after former coach Ruben Luna’s retirement. As for what the former coach taught him, the greenand-white tankers engage in hardline training and work hard for the team.

Rather than speed, he required his players to upgrade their own endurance skills to fortify their stamina.

Sharing the team’s daily routine, coach Vernon conditions his athletes by requiring stretching exercises and conducting a four-kilometer back and forth run followed by a 300-meter swim to test their endurance. He catches a glimpse of the legacy that will remain on the pride of the DLSU-D tankers— perseverance.

Coach Vernon encourages his athletes not just to focus on their sport but in their academics as well. Although they have personal and academic concerns, the new head coach reminds his green-and-white tankers to also find time to talk about their own mishaps and progress inside and outside of the swimming realm.

“Motivation lang talaga ‘yung sagot sa mga bata. Keep training at mahalin mo ‘yung ginagawa mo,” coach Vernon expressed.

Silver linings Preparing for obstacles, the DLSU-D tankers sustain hours of training and complete the sufficient hours of sleep to maintain the proper condition for competitions.

As the current Patriot tankers’ team captain, Adrian Villanueva stays positive because he believes that their team will surpass every incoming challenge.

The same goes for women’s team captain Nicholai Jaafar, who guides

her team through the pressure during competitions.

Being first-time team captains is surely a challenge for these two who are leading the team a year before the K-12 implementation as they would lack players to compete for the University next school year. But with an optimistic outlook, they say it is a fulfilling role seeing your team sweep medals and receive individual awards for their hard work.

“Para sa akin, mino-motivate ko sila sa pamamagitan ng nagte-training ako. Doon sa pagte-training ko na iyon, sana nahahatak ko sila [magsipag] ... kasi siyempre makikita namin ‘yung result no’ng pagte-training namin do’n pagdating sa competition,” a hopeful Villanueva expressed as he promises to continue being a responsible team leader.

Amid struggles, he is sure that as long as they follow the rules and trainings of their previous captains and coaches—along with coach Vernon’s developmental skills training—they will regain the unity that the team has been losing due to the adjustments and replacements they are facing.

Adjusting personally didn’t take much of Villanueva’s time because he has already experienced training under coach Vernon and assistant coach Jayson Dalay in the past years. He views the adjustments and replacement of coaches as motivation to learn new and exciting lessons from them. He is thrilled because he knows that the two passionate coaches have more to offer in developing skills and character.

Just like the other squads in the University, the swimming team’s preparation for the upcoming tournaments involves regular training routines. When asked about their record on impending tournaments, Villanueva expressed, “Masipag naman 'yung batch ngayon so titingnan natin kung mahihigitan namin or mame-maintain, or bababa ‘yung performance namin.”

Facing the aftermath of their shortcomings in past competitions and even during trainings, he said that they need to first identify the things they failed to do as a team. Villanueva is hopeful that they would improve once they figure out their flaws.

Motivation lang talaga ‘yung sagot sa mga bata (DLSU-D tankers).

Keep training at mahalin mo ‘yung ginagawa mo.

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DLSU-D Tankers.

(Back, l-r) Reigner Pascual, John De Leoz, Adrian Villanueva, Gene Paguia, Miguel Aldeguer, Vernon Himor (front, l-r) Kyle Jaafar, Jessica Salazar, Nicholai Jaafar, Daniellecca Borbe, Vincent Llaguno

In imparting his wisdom, Villanueva teaches his teammates that their athletic career is not a hindrance in performing well in class. He believes that no matter how tough things get in balancing both academics and sport, you can still do and offer more for the team.

As for Jaafar, former team captain Jerome Magallanes’ departure was a big challenge for them because his hard work and dedication was an inspiration for the team. “Kahit na third year [na] siya, kinukuha pa rin siya ng ibang university to play. Hindi siya pumayag na sumali sa ibang university kasi gusto niya talaga makapagtapos dito sa La Salle, Dasmariñas” she added.

Unfortunately, due to unexpected turn of events, Magallanes had to leave DLSU-D due to academic problems.

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Just like what coach Vernon said about time management, Jaafar always reminds her team to find time fozr their training especially when the competition is close. Staying out of conflict, the tankers need to train hard to maintain their own grant because their scholarship percentage will keep decreasing if they will not succeed in their competitions.

Observing a greater standard of coaching, Jaafar described coach Vernon as stricter. The new head coach manages the tankers to follow his every training routine, and encourages his athletes to set their own schedule.

“I always inform them or tell them na nasa huli 'yung pagsisisi kasi hindi pa nila nararamdaman, kung ano ‘yung

feeling [para sa amin] lalo na ‘yung mga bago kung paano matalo kahit na pinaghirapan mo naman ‘yung pagtetraining mo,” Jaafar shared. However, whether they win or not, the most important achievement for them is that they’ve trained hard for their team.

*** With the endurance the DLSU-D tankers are showing when gliding through life’s every stroke and splash, they are definitely up for a bright future. Having faith in this famous saying “hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard” that coach Vernon believes in, they are improving their way to the top and while plunging into the water’s depth.

F E AT U R E D

GREEN AND BLUE alliance SHAPING AN EAGLE CAGER THE PATRIOTIC WAY John Zedrick Simeon and Rose Kristine Amarillo Jose Mari Martinada

As former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) standout Benjie Paras said, every father has surely dreamt of having a child who’ll be in the collegiate basketball’s big leagues and then progress into PBA with a boom.

Coach Angelito “Jon-jon” Cani, DLSU-D men’s basketball team assistant coach, seized that dream as he tailored his youngster Hubert Cani to catch eyes at every basketball tourney. Disregarding the blue-and-green rivalry, coach Jon-jon invests his basketball expertise in developing his boy to soar high as an eagle in Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball team.

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Masaya siya habang [naglalaro siya ng] basketball.

Nakita ko [na] parang ito ‘yung strength niya.

Passion-driven life Living life with a passion for basketball, coach Jon-jon pursued being a teacher and a coach at the same time despite graduating from a business management and engineering course. He took an education course major in Physical Education and master’s degree in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila before teaching in DLSU-D and before coaching the Patriot cagers. Shaping his teaching skills, he experienced being a referee and a coach of barangayan, intertown, and inter-commercial basketball events.

As a varsity player in his college years, coach Jon-jon passed his love for basketball to Hubert by letting him watch his games since his son was young. Even when coach Jon-jon let Hubert try other sports like taekwondo, karate, swimming, biking, and table tennis, Hubert still chose basketball, letting the dominant blood of the hoopsters win. “Parang buntot ko na siya, kung nasa’n ako, kasama siya. Binigyan ko siya ng bola, talagang tuloy-tuloy na ‘yung paglalaro niya. Parang na-in love siya sa basketball,” coach Jon-jon proudly said about his son.

The grinding process Despite providing game plans and trainings for Hubert, coach Jon-Jon never neglected his responsibilities as a father. Just like most fathers and sons, the two have their own bonding time, share the same hobbies, and set respect as the number one rule, which they consider as the formula for their success.

Expressing a father and coach’s thoughts on Hubert’s zeal for the sport, “Masaya siya habang nilalaro niya ‘yung basketball. Every morning and every night, nakita ko [na] parang ito ‘yung strength niya [kaya] kailangan suportahan [ko] na lang.”

Seeing his son’s promising talent, coach Jon-jon flourished Hubert’s skill by letting him join the trainings of his previously coached teams. Knowing conditioning is key to performance consistency, Coach Cani also sets specific routine for Hubert like 45-minute jogging, cross training, and a lift in the gym for losing pounds. Also, he never stopped improving his son’s jump shot and dribbling skill, which is important for his point guard position in the game.

Out of the 94 feet long plane, the two bond with each other playing guitars, swimming, biking, and driving. Although they occasionally experience arguments, the duo’s deep affection never failed to be a pill for a patch-up. “Through jokes [nagkakasundo kami], halimbawa, parang babasagin mo ‘yung pareho kaming tahimik.

Minsan ako ‘yung magjo-joke, minsan siya, tapos sabay na kaming kakain. So doon pa lang, nawawala na ‘yung tampuhan,” a smiling coach Jon-jon said.

From tallies to sidelines During his last formative year in the National University (NU) High School, Hubert became a starter and wiped the standings clean with a historic 16-0 record in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Juniors Season 76.

Completing the memorable record, Hubert,

together with the NU Bullpups, swept the finals round over his present school, Ateneo. As a bonus, he also got the Most Valuable Player award. “As a basketball player, kasi, he wants the best. Gusto niya lumaro (sic) rin ‘yung teammates [niya].

Hindi siya naglalaro para sa sarili kasi ‘yung basketball, hindi puwedeng mag-isa ka lang,” the honored coach and father said.

After dealing with a residency problem, the 20-year-old Hubert faced his first playing year for the Blue Eagles in disappointment as he averaged only 6.45 minutes a game. Nonetheless, his failure served as his motivation into becoming a more versatile and stellar player. “Ngayon, ang failure ko, ang kaunti ng time ko sa UAAP. Mas nagpupursigi ako ngayon na next season maglalaro na ako [sa team],” Hubert said.

Now that their star point guard Kiefer Ravena has graduated, Hubert might one day be in for some jaw-dropping layups, swooshing handles, and clutch performances in the hard court. “Sabi nila, para ma-earn [ko] ‘yung minutes, [kailangang] galingan ko sa practice,” said a driven Hubert. *** Just like Icarus, flying too close to the sun will bring you down—but as long as coach Jon-jon looks out for Hubert, he will guide him to a path higher than that sphere of fire. Hard work may be one of the main aspects an athlete needs to attain the highest peak of their career. But nothing compares to an exceptional father equipping you with your needs to push you to your goal.

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Where it all started 10 hoary sports from ancient history Rose Kristine Amarillo

Wenchie Tacate

Back in Aristotle’s era, sports competitions were spiced up with bloodshed in the battlefield, causing spectators to jump, punch the air, and scream in adrenaline. Prepare your chariots as Just Play takes you to ancient times in these 10 historical sports.

Human baits: Fisherman’s Joust If you like water sports and being a sadist at the same time, Fisherman’s Joust could be the right sport for you. Powerful strength and cleverness are the main elements you need in this game. Practice self defense in playing this savage game as you shall beat one another—including your teammates—while rowing your boat on any form of water filled with untamed crocodiles and rowdy hippopotamus. Paddle your way to stay alive or simply learn how to swim as some boatmen actually died in this sport because of drowning and worse, as a snack for the wild animals.

If you're wondering where this game came from, the Ancient Egyptians founded this game between 2780 and 238 BC and was later introduced in Ancient Greece. As this game requires physical strength and boats, Fisherman’s Joust could be the origin of martial games like boating and jousting, which involves paddling and fighting with lances and spears. European countries like France, Switzerland, and Germany revived this game and renamed it Water Jousting, which is less bloodier because of the removal of feral creatures.

Bare devil: Pankration Sweat and awkward embracing might be the components of a typical wrestling game, but a thousand centuries ago, Pankration lets you battle your extremely sweaty opponent while completely naked. Pankration, which means all of might, is a sport for all muscular men who would like to try a blend of boxing and wrestling.

While being naked in the arena, this game requires no time limits and continues until a player surrenders or passes away. Pankration was basically the first mixed-martial art without organized rules and system as it uses physical contact and other competent skills.

Drowning in misery: Naumachia Witnessing a battle on a platform is a normal hobby for sports enthusiasts, but to witness a battle with brutal fights in a body of water was a pleasurable pastime for the Romans. Introduced in 49 BC, Naumachia or also known as “naval warfare” is a reenactment of famous Roman battleships in which high-ranking Romans in the ancient times are involved in the bloody entertainment. Joining the largest recorded Naumachia event would be thrilling and nerve-racking because 100 floating ships with over 19, 000 men participated in the game hailed the strongest of all.

To recreate some famous naval battles, a person should fill an entire arena with water and add a bunch of ships. Unlike in battlefields, the dead participants’ blood will cause a team’s defeat as the thick, red blood will slowly fill the ship until it sinks.

Just like Fisherman’s Joust, Naumachia resembles boating and jousting as it requires strength to move their ships and kill their opponents violently.

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Stretching the glory: Viking Skin Pulling Fire, skin, and animal hides are the elements for Viking Skin Pulling. Created between the 8th and 5th century BC, this game was originally introduced as a competition among a large scale of players. This was famous in places like Egypt, England, and Scandinavia where alarming Viking stories are notable.

Known for their love for fire and murder, Vikings altered the simple tug-of-war into a rough and bloody game. Instead of a rope, Vikings used animal hides and played the game over a pit of fire. So if you don’t want to be burned to death, you should give all your strength to survive.

Quacking ball: Pato Not all ducks in ranches are meant to be petted or eaten, some are meant to become a ball in a sport called Pato. Invented in the 1500s, Pato or horse ball is derived from the Spanish word “duck” and was Argentina‘s original sport. Instead of a ball, Pato is played with a live duck in neighbouring ranches. Along with a pot of money, the first team to reach its own ranch house with the duck is the winner.

This game is a mix of polo and basketball where Juan Perón, former president of Argentina, made Pato as Argentina’s national game in 1953. In the late 18th century, some Catholic priests refused to give a Christian burial to any person who died during a Pato match because of the knife fights that brutally killed some of the players and ducks. Caring for the safety of the players and the ducks as well, Pato is still played today but ranch owners set rules based on modern polo, hiring umpires who check the welfare of the players and animals.

Flaming puck: Pelota Purépecha Created just for pyromaniacs, the Purépecha people founded the 16th century prehispanic Mesoamerican game, Pelota Purépecha. This sport should be played at night because its ball, Zapandukua, is made up of interwoven cloth and twine that is lit on fire, especially made to bring spectacle under the moonlight.

Each team will appoint their own captain who will lead and direct the match. To begin the game, the two captains will face each other and hit their sticks, which are called Jatsiraku, alternately for three times. Strongly kicking or striking the ball across the line with Jatsiraku will guarantee your victory as it hits the goal.

Preserving a piece of national history, the Mexican government encourages their citizens to play Pelota Purépecha. The Mexican Sports Confederation even built a sports center in Mexico in 2010 where retired Mexican football midfielder, coach Salvador Mercado, hosted a Pelota Purépecha event. To raise awareness on preserving the ancient sport, they also held seminars and printed rulebooks for this antiquated sport.

Whack it, stick it: Nguni Stick Fighting A famous saying states “sticks and stones may break your bones,” but only two sticks are needed to weaken your body in this game. Practice your alertness and self-defense as you meet the ancestor of fencing, Nguni Stick Fighting. Introduced in the 17th Century by the Nguni tribe from South Africa, the Nguni stick fighters are called “Zulus.”

As your opponent hits your body with outraging force, you should use one stick for defense and the other stick for offense. Consider yourself lucky enough when you get home covered with wounds and broken bones because other fighters die inside the ring.

Until today, the Nguni herd boys in South Africa still practice the Nguni stick fighting for survival. Interestingly, the first president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, played Nguni stick fighting and became a Zulu stick fighter himself.

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Running wild: Diaulos If you have legs longer than an ostrich and speed faster than a cheetah, Diaulos could be fit for you. It is a double-stadion race that was introduced and selected to become a part of the 14th Olympiad of the ancient Olympic Games in 724 BC. The length of each foot race varies on the length of the stadium. In order to win this game, you’ll need to run the rocky race track back and forth rapidly with your bare feet and endure the pain as the rocks and spikes thrust into your feet.

Diaulos resembles sprinting races from the modern generation as it requires both agility and endurance, except that Diaulos limits their race to a 400-meter distance.

Striking the goal: Shin Kicking Originated in England in the early 17th century, Shin Kicking was made for the mighty kickers who have strong legs, powerful kicks, and a steady balance. Before the game ended in the 19th Century, it was one of the most popular events at the Cotswold Olympic Games. British settlers in the United States practiced Shin Kicking, and the sport was included in the revival of the Cotswold Olympic Games in 1951 and remains one of the most popular events until now.

In starting the game, hold your opponent’s collar and look at them straight in the eyes. If you don’t want to be the one crying in pain, stand with strength and agility as your opponent tries to strike your cloth-covered shin with their foot.

Described as a martial art, people around the world are still practicing this sport as they join the annually-held World Shin Kicking Championships.

Across hurdles: Camel Jumping You probably haven’t heard about people jumping on camels as a sport, but Camel Jumping is here to prove that camel jumpers are alive and skipping. Home of the professional camel jumpers, the Zaraniq tribe on the west coast of Yemen introduced this game between the 17th and 18th century. Zahid Amir, a Yemeni man who practiced Camel Jumping at the age of 12, is now known as the best professional camel jumper in Southeast Yemen for his towering high jumps.

Wearing tight, blue clothing, you need to continuously leap over the camels as many times as you can in order to win this game. Better be careful when landing because others get hurt—and even die—when they fall.

Camel Jumping is still a common sport today, especially in Yemen as they still practice this sport during weddings and at the al-Khamis, an annual festival that marks the end of the palm season.

Sources: ww.todayifoundout.com www.olympic.org www.ancientolympics.arts.kuleuven.be

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www.usatoday30.usatoday.com www.scripts.cac.psu.edu www.personal.psu.edu

THE PERFECT SCOOP 10 PERFECTLY TIMED SHOTS IN BASKETBALL HISTORY John Harold Dizon

Nicole Lunaria

Hitting the game-winning play is one of the best things that can happen inside the basketball court. It’s like being grabbed in the last spot of the team’s playing roster after striking that buzzerbeater three-pointer or grudging that ankle-breaking crossover followed by a hoop.

Buckle up and see how these 10 heroic moments of legendary players changed game results, transforming them from zero to hero.

The valiant one Defying the odds, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors drubbed Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City (OKC) Thunders in their clash during the 2015-2016 season of the National Basketball Association (NBA). With Andre Iguodala extending the match to an overtime period, the young but lion-hearted Curry unleashed a 32-feet away three-pointer that left six tenths of a second in the clock. As Curry’s 12th three-pointer startled the crowd, OKC’s Russell Westbrook fizzled his attempt to tie the game that let the Warriors to steal the victory, 121-118.

The Mamba Showcasing the undeniable “Mamba mentality,” Kobe Bryant flaunted eagerness in his last year using jersey number 8 before changing it to 24. At game four of the 2006 NBA Playoffs first round, the Los Angeles Lakers imposed a 99-98 win over the Phoenix Suns that gave them the lead to a seven-game series, 3-1. The Suns, who presided the fourth quarter with a two-point edge, apparently let the ball land on Bryant's hands. Thrusting with his swift legs, Bryant quickly dove in for a jumper and left seven-tenths of a second mark, which suddenly led to a 90-all overtime. Bannering the purple-andgold pride beside the one-point deficit, Luke Walton luckily helped Bryant secure the 17-footer fade-away shot with five seconds remaining before the game concluded at 101-99.

Two in one Hailed as Philippines’ most popular ball club, the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (formerly Gin Kings) hit two birds with one stone. Japeth Aguilar saved the Gins a couple of times, as seen in their game against the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters at the Philippine Basketball Association 2013 All Filipino Cup. Through his superb athletic ability, Aguilar hit a cold-blooded three-pointer that gave Ginebra a 97-95 advantage, leaving 1.1 seconds on the clock. Unstoppable Aguilar widely extended his reach to block Ranidel de Ocampo, avoiding the potential overtime-clinching shot.

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Christmas special Extending to another five-minute action makes a basketball game more intriguing, but timing this extraordinary game on Christmas day made a Noche Buena aftermath more special.

Ginebra proved some analysts right that they’re one of the best teams in terms of come-from-behind triumph. Emerging from a 54-72 disadvantage early in the fourth quarter, Sol Mercado defied the Star Hotshots through an incredible run that placed the score up to 80-all. When the clock ticked on the four-second mark, Lewis Alfred Tenorio put up a dagger three-pointer straight through the heart of the Star Hotshots fans, 92-89.

The unexpected hero A crew will have a hard time performing a dance routine if one dancer injures their arm or foot. Similarly, way back in 2010 during the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) second round game, Michigan State Spartans’ unrated substitute Kori Lucious took the spotlight after star guard Kalin Lucas got injured, as all it took was one dribble and a shot beyond the arc to sink it for an 85-83 success for the Spartans.

The perseverant Sports gurus say that the formula to victory is hardworking players with a big heart. And that is what Matt Howards demonstrated when the Butler Bulldogs diminished the Old Dominion Monarchs in the 2011 NCAA tournament. Displaying 58-all on the scoreboard in the dying seconds of the fourth quarter, Bulldogs' Shawn Vazzant had a sorry-miss layup, but Andrew Smith embattled to get the ball and kept the play alive.

With their dignity at stake, Matt Howard used all of his force to get the ball and made the game-winning shot for the Bulldogs .

Back-to-back heartbreak After glazing the green-and-white community with tears in his shriveling three-point shot in 2014, Mac Belo of the Far Eastern University gored out the hearts of the Ateneo de Manila University’s blue-and-white bandwagon in the semifinal series’ do-or-die game of the 2015 University Athletic Association of the Philippines. After a miss from his teammate Mike Tolomia, Belo rebounded and slammed the ball back to the basket that gave them a 76-74 finale.

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The lucky three There’s a famous quote saying, “If you got lucky once, you’ll have it thrice,” and James Forrest testified it. Going back to the 1992 NCAA tournament, the seventh-seeded Georgia Tech battled against rank two University of Southern California.

With only 0.8 seconds remaining on the clock, Georgia Tech was behind by two points, 76-78. With the ball inbounded to the half court, James Forrest bombed a three-pointer that handed Georgia Tech a tight 79-78 triumph.

Fight for bronze Although players face defeat numerous times, bouncing back and rising up to the challenge is what they do best. During last year’s International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Americas Olympic qualifying tournament, the Canadian squad filled with NBA players still fought hard against host country Mexico after losing the golden opportunity to the Venezuelan team in the semifinal. Down by two points with time slowly ticking down, the Canadian young gun Cory Joseph devastated the Mexican crowd with his fade-away jumper from the left side that sealed the game, 87-86.

Moore baskets With the 2014 Women’s NBA Most Valuable Player trophy chilling in her house, Maya Moore of the Minesota Lynx strived hard to give her team a 2-1 edge in the 2015 finals series against the Indiana Fever. Despite having foul trouble early in the game, Moore bunked a quick three-pointer to display an 80-77 success for the Lynx with 1.1 seconds in the game time.

Sources: www.spin.ph dc.sbnation.com www.basketball.ca espn.go.com www.nydailynews.com www.youtube.com

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cover story

Ace of the aces

THE speedster-student success story of Alvin Valdenarro Fernan Patrick Flores

Jose Mari Martinada

It takes vigorous speed training for a sprinter to set the best time record and countless sleepless study nights for a student to stand out in academics. But for Patriot sprinter Alvin Valdenarro, it took passion and perseverance to set his best personal record in academics and athletics at the same time. Fulfilling his dream before graduating, Valdenarro is a step closer to the finish line after being included in the AY 2015-2016 first semester dean’s honor list while still staying on track of his sprinting achievements.

Clocking his finest 10.53 seconds record for a 100-meter dash as a Patriot trackster, 21-year-old Valdenarro shares how he upgraded his prowess in the athletic field and how he juggles his priorities as a student-athlete.

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Just Play (JP): Paano mo natuklasan na mayroon kang potential sa larangan ng athletics?

Alvin Valdenarro (AV): Elementary pa lang ako, nahilig na ako sa mga takbuhan. Naglalaro [na ako] sa lansangan ng karera talaga mismo, ‘yung pustahan. So do’n nagsimulang na-discover kong mayroon pala akong bilis na naitatago. Pagdating ng high school, kinuha ako ng tito ko as an athlete. Tinreyn niya ako nang maayos [at nang] mayroong disiplina.

Do’n nagsimula ‘yung dream ko. Nagstart akong mangarap. Sabi ko, ‘di ako kayang pag-aralin ng mga magulang ko ng college kasi high school pa lang, naghihirap na sila [kaya] gumawa ako ng paraan.

JP: May history ba ng sports ang pamilya niyo?

AV: Sabi ng nanay ko, [noong] elementary, naglalaro rin siya pero hindi naman totally na nakarating siya ng matataas na kompetisyon. Sa akin na nagsimula ‘yung sa pagtakbo.

JP: Paano mo napapagsabaysabay ‘yung mga ginagawa mo bilang isang student athlete?

AV: Talagang mahirap nga kasi athlete ako. Siyempre wala ‘yung magulang ko dito [kaya] ako ‘yung magaayos ng mga gamit ko at maglalaba.

Sa girlfriend, kailangan maintindihan niya kung ano ‘yung responsibility [ko] sa school. Kasi nag-aaral ako tapos atleta ako, kailangan kong mag-training [at] kailangan kong mag-aral. ‘Pag may free time ako, gumagawa ako ng paraan para ma-surprise siya at magkaroon ng time para makasama siya.

JP: Ano ang tumatakbo sa isip mo sa kalagitnaan ng race?

AV: Focus sa na-train mo at saka lagi akong nagpe-pray kapag na[gla] laro, e. Dalangin ko lagi na samahan ako ng Panginoon na bawat hakbang ko ay hindi matalisod. Kaya tiwala lang ako do’n [at] hindi ako kinakabahan masiyado pero nandoon ‘yung excitement. Kasi kapag iisipin mo ‘yung time na tatarget-in mo, pagkatapos ng race ko, hindi ko nakuha ‘yung [mabilis na] time.

JP: Ano ang naging inspirasyon mo para mag-excel sa academics at athletics?

AV: Una, ginagawa ko ‘to para sa Panginoon kasi nabasa ko nga sa Bible, “Do it all for the glory of God.”

Pangalawa, para sa pamilya ko kasi laki kami sa hirap. Kailangan kong magsumikap para mayroon akong maachieve balang araw. May maisusukli sa mga ibinigay nila sa akin at sa pagpapalaki nila sa akin ng maayos kahit may kahirapan. At saka tulong ng mga kaibigan ko kasi pinu-push nila ako [para mag-ensayo]. At saka ‘yung girlfriend [ko na] sobrang supportive.

JP: Anong routines ang ginagawa mo para mapanatili sa kondisyon ang katawan mo?

AV: Kailangan ko ng maintenance, hindi ako tataba at hindi rin naman ako masyadong magpapakapayat. Ang hirap tumakbo ng mataba e, okay lang sana kahit wala akong ensayo ‘pag ‘yung katawan ko [ay] nasa tama lang, hindi

Maging determinado ka sa mga ginagawa mo.

Isapuso mo ‘yung mga ginagawa mo.

Alam kasi ng Diyos ang desire ng puso mo. At saka ‘wag kalimutan ‘yung time management. mataba at hindi mapayat. Nando’n pa rin ‘yung lakas na puwede pa rin akong makipag-compete. Kain lang ng mga light [food], hindi ‘yung pagkain na pampataba. At saka, [kailangan ng] tamang tulog.

JP: Ano ang study habits at rituals mo bago mag-aral?

AV: Basa basa lang. Kapag may exam, kailangan talagang magbasa.

Kapag hindi ako nagbasa, babagsak ako. Kapag marami kang nababasa, maraming pumapasok na knowledge sa isip mo. Matutulog ako ng maaga [tapos] kinabukasan gigising ako ng 4 AM. Kasi sinubukan kong mag-aral ng gabi, kinaumagahan kaunti lang natandaan ko. Pero ‘pag umaga, mas

marami akong naka-catch up (sic) na words. Halimbawa, sa code of ethics ng police ng law of enforcement, mas mabilis kong nakibisado ‘yung lines na ‘yon sa tuwing umaga kong pagbabasa.

JP: Ano ang strengths at weaknesses mo?

AV: Weakness ko siguro ay family ko.

‘Di rin ako magaling sa English. Kapag hindi ko alam ang English ng ganito, nagtatanong ako. Pagiging masipag ko ang strength ko at saka pagsusumikap at pagiging determinado.

Kapag determinado ako, gagawin ko ang lahat para makuha ang gusto ko.

JP: Ano ang unique na katangian mo bilang isang atleta?

AV: Siguro, disiplinado [ako]. Dati may bisyo ako, nainom ako ng alak.

Pero, ini-stop ko na ‘yon, talagang disiplina lang. ‘Yung ibang athlete, hindi ko naman nilalahat, masisipag sila pero may bisyo sila. Naapektuhan ‘yung physical [health] nila, e.

JP: Ano ang pinakamabigat na problema na hinarap mo bilang atleta?

AV: ‘Yung pagkakaroon ko ng injury.

Lumalaban ako minsan na may injury.

Masakit ‘yon, nakakakaba ‘yon para sa akin kasi hindi ako makatakbo ng maayos. So pray lang, nagkaroon ako ng plantar fasciitis (heel pain) noong August 2014. Pinatigil ako ng doctor ng ensayo kasi kailagan kong magpahinga.

Medyo may katigasan ‘yung ulo ko nung mga panahon na ‘yon so nag-ensayo pa rin ako. Sa laban na ‘yon do’n pinakita ng Panginoon ‘yung miracle. Kung ano ‘yung naramramdan mo, basta faithful ka kay Lord, bibigyan ka niya ng reward kaya nagpatuloy ako sa church kahit midweek. Pray na lang ako ng pray.

Pagdating sa laban, no’ng nagwa-warm up ako, may sakit pa rin [ako]. Pero nanalo pa rin ako sa mismong laban.

Nakatakbo ako ng parang hindi ako nagkaroon ng injury pero pagkatapos ng laro, nandoon pa rin ‘yung sakit.

JP: Kapag nakapagtapos ka na ng pag-aaral, pipiliin mo bang maging criminologist o ipu-pursue mo ang athletics?

AV: Nagtatrabaho na naglalaro pa rin, kasi lifestyle [ko] na [ang athletics].

Mahal ko na rin ‘tong ginagawa ko. Kung magtatrabaho na lang din ako, gusto ko nagme-maintenace pa rin ako ng katawan kasi healthy lifestyle ‘yung gusto ko.

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Name: Alvin L. Valdenarro Birthdate: August 15, 1994 Height: 174 cm

Motto: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I am nothing without Christ.”

– Philippians 4:13

Weight : 67 kg

Favorite sports icon: Usain Bolt, Kobe Bryant, and Stephen Curry

Age: 21

CYS: CRI42

JP: Ano ang mga bagay na natutunan mo sa DLSU-D bilang isang Patriot trackster?

AV: Una talaga diyan [ay] time management kasi dito nasusubok ‘yung pagkakaroon ng disiplina na dapat bigyan mo talaga ng time ang pag-aaral at pagtetraining kasi kapag napabayaan mo, puwede kang matanggal. Ito lang ginagawa ko: aral, training, at simba. Every week talaga, kailangan kong magpasalamat sa Panginoon sa lahat ng blessings.

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JP: Ano ang best moments mo sa DLSU-D? AV: Pagiging dean’s lister ko. Ineexpect ko na rin kasi ‘yon kasi nagaaral ako. ‘Pag talagang ibibigay para sa ‘yo, ibibigay talaga sa ‘yo ng Diyos.

No’ng third year ako, do’n ako nakapagset ng personal best ko no’ng PRISAA Nationals 2015. Do’n ko nabigay ‘yung best ko na 10.53 seconds na time. Hindi ko makakalimutang nakapag-time ako ng best na 10.53 seconds. Parang bibitaw na

rin kasi ako no’n kasi gusto ko nang magfocus sa pag-aaral.

JP: Ano ang ma-ise-share mo sa kapwa mo Lasalyano?

AV: Pray hard, play hard, and train hard. Maging determinado ka sa mga ginagawa mo. Isapuso mo ‘yung mga ginagawa mo. Alam kasi ng Diyos ang desire ng puso mo. At saka ‘wag kalimutan ‘yung time management. Bigyan talaga ng [time] ‘yung pag-aaral at saka ‘yung pagte-training.

F E AT U R E D

THE SPIKERS’ SAGA Voyage beyond the DLSU-D courtside Ezekiel Coronacion

Patricia Loise Lucero and Roxanne Valerie Rasco

Bannering the green and white flag, the Patriot alumni’s animo pride bursts in the local and international volleyball society. Living the spiker spirit in their hearts, they continue to crusade and chase their athletic dreams through joining various professional teams—especially the national team.

Starting from Alnakran “Ran” Abdilla and Al-Frazin “Fraz” Alduwahab’s smashing successes in Philippine Super Liga (PSL) tourneys to femme fatale duo Iari “Iya” Yongco and Jennifer “Jen” Manzano soaring high with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) volleyball team, indeed, DLSU-D cultured several powerhouse players in the Philippine volleyball history.

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After [ng] lahat ng nangyari sa buhay ko, hindi mo puwedeng talikuran kung saan ka nanggaling kasi do’n ka nagsimula.

Alnakran Abdilla With potency and vigor, adversaries are no match for Alnakran “Ran” Abdilla’s solid and robust spikes. Prevailing as an all-around hitter, Ran’s journey outside the DLSU-D court was inaugurated early by guesting in the PAF team when he was still a third year Criminology student. The Air Force spikers saw his impeccable potential as a spiker and persuaded him to join the team while working for them. Determined to become one of the finest spikers in sports history, he eventually participated in Bagwis Pilipinas, the the Philippines' national volleyball team.

Born in April 22, 1992, Tawi-Tawi native Ran started his Patriot career in 2008, forging his skills while anchoring his name to DLSU-D. Gathering numerous awards such as Most Valuable Player and being a part of the sought-after mythical six, Ran proved that he really is the “Ranzilla” of the court as he possesses the drive and expertise to bring the DLSU-D team to national tourneys. Ran dragged his team to numerous championships during his reign, particularly in the Private Athletic Association (PRISAA) Nationals tournament and the National Capital Region Athletic Association league.

Born and bred in the farthest town of the country, Ran found his stepping stone in the green-and-white courtside before emerging as one of the country’s national icon. Meanwhile, setting foot in the international arena, Ran shared that joining the prestigious men’s national volleyball team Bagwis Pilipinas is very challenging because of the competent foreign rivals that he brawled with in global tournaments. However, Ran eagerly showcased his Patriot pride and prodigious skills outside the Philippine domain while placing seventh out of 19 countries in the Asian Men’s Volleyball league in 2014.

Bringing back his college tourney memories, Ran contrasts, “Sa collegiate kasi, mostly national competitions. Ang pinagkaiba lang no’ng sa collegiate, medyo mababa ‘yung level ng mga kalaban. Sa international, nandiyan na lahat, matatangkad, international players, [at] known players.”

Grasping the peak of his career, Ran looked back at his roots and shared, “After [ng] lahat ng nangyari sa buhay ko, hindi mo puwedeng talikuran kung saan ka nanggaling kasi do’n ka nagsimula. I, myself, nagpapasalamat ako kung hindi dahil sa La Salle [Dasma], wala ako sa kinatatayuan ko ngayon.”

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[Tuwing] ipapakilala ako na from Philippine Air Force slash DLSU-D, tinatanong [ako], taga-La Salle Taft ka? Sabi ko naman, hindi ... I’m from La Salle Dasma, sobrang proud ako ...

Iari Yongco As a volleyball devotee and proud Patriot, Iari “Iya” Yongco flared up her athletic zest by continuing what she started in the volleyball courtside. After her DLSU-D life, Iya moved mountains as she previously joined Amihan Pilipinas. She also changed courses—from a tourism graduate, she now serves as one of the country’s air force soldier. Iya proved that even though working is essential, an athlete’s passion for the sport will never fade.

Tracking her humble beginnings, Iya kicked off her career with the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws with less developed skills to play volleyball. Inheriting the athletic gene from her father Ireneo Yongco who was a Tamaraw alumna, Iya was luckily accepted in the green and yellow team. Using her advantageous height of 5’10", and through critically observing gameplays of former teammates like Rachel Daquis, Iya developed her precarious strategy and perception. But because of the exhausting trips and far-fromhome situation, she dropped out of the FEU territory and eventually stepped into the Patriot zone, forging her name as one of the DLSU-D star players from year 2010 to 2013.

Weighing collegiate against professional leagues, she claimed that soaring high with the Air Force camp while playing in the pro leagues is arduous and exhausting because the opponents are more competent and well-known to the public. In fact, Iya already joined forces with the PAF team when she was in second year college before she took the team’s offer.

Going back to the origin of her triumph, Iya shares, “[Tuwing] ipapakilala ako na from Philippine Air Force slash DLSU-D tinatanong [ako], taga La Salle Taft ka? Sabi ko naman, hindi ako taga-La Salle Taft, La Salle Benilde, [or] La Salle Bacolod, I’m from La Salle Dasma. Sobrang proud akong galing akong La Salle Dasma.”

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Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako kasi kung walang volleyball sa La Salle [Dasma], ‘di ako makakapagaral sa DLSU-D. Al-Frazin Alduwahab

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Being the brainpower or the setter of a volleyball team is challenging and exciting for Patriot alumna Al-Frazin “Fraz” Abdulwahab. Back in his golden years in the DLSU-D action scene, Fraz acted as the volleyball team’s broadcaster inside the 9 x 9 meter courtside for five years. Currently acting as the assistant coach of the DLSU-D spikers, he is also a part of the Santa Helena Construction volleyball team or the Santa Helena Construction Wrecking Balls, one of the pioneer teams of the Spikers’ Turf tournament.

Emerging from the southernmost part of the country, TawiTawi, Fraz and his brother Al-sharin played for the Patriot volleyball squad while rookie Rafshin joined the team when his older brother Fraz graduated. Fraz has been contributing his expertise to the green-and-white team since 2008; and after earning the degree of Bachelor in Science in Criminology, he united with the Wrecking Balls alongside co-teammate and Filipino actor, Richard Gomez.

Fraz pursued playing volleyball for now rather than working in his field because he dreams to become a well-known professional player. He also added that volleyball is now overtaking the sports media, which provides relentless volleyball tourneys such as Philippine Super Liga and Spikers’ Turf. However, he still has plans in applying for PAF using the degree he attained.

Being a part of the collegiate team can be exhausting; Fraz proved that uniting with professional teams is easier than joining a university varsity team. “Mas mahirap pa rin ‘yung training ng collegiate kaysa professional, kasi ‘yung [sa] professional, relax ka na kasi veteran ka na. Sa collegiate naman, bata ka pa [kaya] dapat umaangat ka pa rin.”

Finding a new home after the Patriot journey, Fraz teamed up with the Wrecking Balls and discovered the team’s friendly approach and exceptional prowess, which are the reasons why he’s satisfied with the whole squad. Ecstatic with his first achievement outside DLSU-D, he detailed that it was challenging when he applied for the position setter in the Sta. Helena team. Of twelve setters who vied for the slot, only two were accepted by the team and Fraz was one of the them.

Sharing how DLSU-D exceptionally helped him to prosper, Fraz never forgets the cause of his current success. “Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako kasi kung walang volleyball sa La Salle [Dasma], ‘di ako makakapag-aral dito. Ang laki ng tuition, ‘di ba?

Kumbaga, amazing pa rin [na] nakapag-aral ako dito sa DLSU-D.”

... nagpapasalamat din ako sa [DLSU-D] kasi kung hindi ako nag-aral or naglaro dito [sa La Salle Dasma], hindi ako mas makikilala pa.

Jennifer Manzano With a blazing trail in her relentless volleyball journey, Jen was the green-and-white gem of the team in years 2007 to 2012. Climbing up to the pro league, Jen never abandoned her volleybelle spirit while being a soldier in PAF. Though busy with her profession, Jen found time to express her story inside the Air Force courtside.

Standout player of the DLSU-D court in the 2011, Lingayen, Pangasinan pride Jen grabbed trophies, spiking her way through different leagues such as the Shakey’s V-League and PRISAA. She even represented the Philippines in the collegiate international league of Summer Universiade Beach Volleyball in 2013.

Earning the degree of Bachelor of Science in Criminology, Jen mentioned that she still plays volleyball while working as a soldier in PAF because she considered it as an opportunity and a blessing at the same time. Sharing her strenuous training in the Air Force base, Manzano stated that she and fellow teammate Iari Yongco underwent six-month training camp to develop their skills as a player and as a team.

Possessing the drive of an athlete and the responsibility of a soldier, Jen was able to fuse two jobs at the same time. “[Para sa akin], kadugtong ng pagiging sundalo ang paglalaro ng volleyball.”

Jen has been working and playing for PAF for four years, and recalling her memories in the Patriot team, she stated that the burden of being a worker-athlete is harder and more complicated than being a student-athlete.

Without the financial support from her parents, she used her expertise to climb up the ropes to success. “La Salle Dasma lang talaga ang tumulong na makapagtapos ako ng pag-aaral … nagpapasalamat din ako sa [DLSU-D] kasi kung hindi ako nag-aral or naglaro dito [sa La Salle Dasma], hindi ako mas makikilala pa.”

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s ta n d p o i n t

It’s a good time to be a Filipino sports fan John Paul Mari Abcede (Contributor)

Brandon Ocenar

Nicole Lunaria

Basketball, volleyball, and football—these are some of the team sports that Filipinos have grown accustomed to playing, if not following as a fan. Boxing and mixed martial arts are combat sports where Filipinos have been making headlines in the past few years, whether mixed heritage or homegrown.

We have become familiar with the exploits of Jimmy Alapag and the rest of the Gilas Pilipinas in international basketball competitions. Meanwhile, the likes of Abigail Maraño and our very own Iari Yongco and Cherry Rose Nunag, and even former Patriot volleybelle Jeushl Wensh Tiu, have become household names as they have been lined up at the commercial volleyball league Philippine SuperLiga. Finally, football players with Filipino lineage continue to emerge from the woodwork as the Azkals improve and progress.

Almost everyone can recognize Brandon Vera and retired Mixed Martial Arts fighter Mark Muñoz after witnessing their achievements at the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Mark Eddiva and Roldan Sangcha-an also took the spotlight in the premier promotion. Manny Pacquiao, unarguably, is a one-of-a-kind athletic specimen. One thing is for sure though; he won’t be the last boxer from our country that would become the world champion as pugs from every nook and cranny are eager to take over the reins.

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So many sports, so little time Never has it been in recent history, at least in the post-Martial Law period, that Filipinos have had a chance to be exposed to sports this way. What is occurring right now hasn’t happened since the time when the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association (MICAA) was instituted and held a variety of sports events (not just basketball) in its calendar. The setup is pretty much like a regular collegiate sports league, but for commercial institutions and companies. Aside from that, if you are familiar with its history, then you know that the MICAA was the precursor of what is now the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

Sure, some of the other sports have had their moment under the spotlight, such as when tracksters Lydia de Vega-Mercado and Elma Muros-Posadas made waves in the 80s or when billiard players Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante peaked in the late 90s and early 2000s. There was a time when billiard bars and badminton halls popped up like mushrooms everywhere.

However, attention in these athletic disciplines faltered as time went on.

Proceeding to the present, our options on what sport to participate in or to support have never been more diversified.

We have a semipro football league that has lasted longer than anyone before its time and its member clubs have played in continental competitions. There are two active commercial volleyball leagues that are supposed to cater to different levels of players. Non-mainstream sports like ultimate frisbee, dragonboat, and flag football thrive because of weekend warriors.

Needless to say, alphabet soup basketball tournaments continue to sprout, from the PBA D-League and the Filsports Basketball Association to the Pilipinas Commercial Basketball League and the soon-to-be launched Countrywide Basketball League.

The point in all of this? It is a good time to be exposed to sports!

Sports, sports everywhere Technology has had a hand in cultivating this culture of 24/7 sports action. Paid

television (TV) gave us sports channels that cover anything with a semblance of competition at all times of the day. And then, there’s the World Wide Web, where we can check live games, statistics, highlights, and other pertinent information about sports, wherever we are as long as we have internet connection.

We have distanced ourselves from the time when we need to wait for next day’s newspaper to know the scores, when boxing bouts and basketball games from across the Pacific are broadcasted on delay, and the only thing we get to watch live on TV is the PBA. We’ve past the days when the only way we can learn stuff

How can one find time to sleep if soccer matches get played early morning, followed

by NBA games by sunrise, then local sports from afternoon until night? about our favorite teams and players are by reading black-and-white magazines that are published weekly.

Today, National Basketball Association (NBA) contests can be seen in real-time on free TV, Pacquiao fisticuffs are on pay-per-view, and football matches in Europe can be followed via livestream. It is because of this exposure and ready access that gives everyone the chance to broaden their horizons.

Case in point, the most recent Super Bowl. Everyone became American football

analysts at an instant with the help of a friend named Google. Most wouldn’t have realized Gabe Norwood’s brother is playing for the Denver Broncos if not for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painter’s social media post wishing his younger sibling luck against the Carolina Panthers in the championship game.

This can be viewed in two ways. First, one can castigate these "instant fans" and decry that they are just riding on what’s trending that day to appear in the loop. Or it can be seen as a way for them to be converted to become full-blown fans provided they continue learning about the sport.

The excitement on the Philippine men’s football team won’t be sustained this long if not for the benefit of technology. Only the hardcore fanatic will know that the Philippines beat Malaysia in men’s football during the 1991 Southeast Asian Games, a historic moment considering how long the sport has been in the doldrums here in the country. However, one only needs to pull up a YouTube video if they want to watch highlights of the “miracle in Hanoi” in the 2010 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Championship, the regional tournament that is more popularly known as the Suzuki Cup, where the Azkals defeated Vietnam in our opponent’s stadium.

All I’m trying to say is to not let this opportunity pass. We now all know that ice skating rinks aren’t out of place in a tropical country such as ours since we can produce Olympians from those.

That football—regardless of what code we are referring to, whether association, rugby, or gridiron—are not as highbrow as perceived to be and can be embraced by the general population. That open spaces can be interchangeably utilized as a basketball, volleyball, or a futsal court.

***

Indeed, sports is life for a hardcore sports fan in this day and age. How can one find time to sleep if soccer matches get played early morning, followed by NBA games by sunrise, then local sports from afternoon until night?

About the writer John Paul Mari Abcede “JP” was Heraldo Filipino’s sports editor who pioneered Just Play magazine back in 2005. Even after leaving his career in MegaSportsWorld, he still takes projects as a freelance writer. He is currently training to be a full-pledged financial consultant and provides live tweets on Philippine SuperLiga's Twitter account.

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Patriot cager. Luke JoshuaParcero

Breaching out the zone DISCOVERING THE PATRIOTS’ TRIUMPHANT FORMULA John Harold Dizon

Camille Trinidad

Ricardo Martin Cabale

As players persevere and intensify their prowess inside the court, most of them discover a specific zone—a superhero-like phenomenon—that hands them the aptitude to notch up easy-to-get baskets, spikes, and blocks.

DLSU-D’s competence in different leagues paved way to a legacy as its mainstay players serve as the backbone of every team. With the combination of superb teamwork, Just Play chatted with two of DLSU-D’s ace players who shared how they showcase their skills in games that help them constantly bag medals and trophies for the green-andwhite pride.

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The flow Hailing the Patriot banner in every tournament, DLSU-D aces Luke Parcero and Cherry Rose Nunag consistently flaunted their A-game performance in the cagers’ and volleybelles’ different tournaments.

And this magic all happens when they go to that certain area called the “athlete’s zone.”

The athletes’ zone is a state that can rift the inner capacities, talents, and skills of an athlete that often grants them positive results in their game and performance.

Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csíkszentmihályi’s proposed flow theory explains that a person inside the zone (or athletes’ zone for the athletes), lets the mind and body run with its flow. The flow is an optimal mental state that people experience when engaged in an activity that extremely challenges an individual’s skill level, frequently resulting to a more focused concentration on a specific task. Take for instance Nunag’s speed while dropping quick spikes, and Parcero’s strength when rebounding the ball.

Continuing Csíkszentmihályi’s study, psychologists Janet Young and Michelle Pain studied the flow, and they characterized the flow as the pinnacle of an athlete, and the balanced combination of excitement and awareness that will push athletes to their exceptional performances.

Setting the body The zone typically helps athletes to stand on top of the podium and earn multiple medals. But of course, entering the sacred place will be impossible unless you bring the right ticket—vigorous training.

Defining his stamina when he’s in the zone, Parcero explained, “‘Di mo na mararamdaman ang pagod kapag nandoon ka na sa point na ‘yon (zone). Ang pakiramdam ko kapag nakaka-shoot ako, hindi ako napapagod.” Like Rock Lee from the anime Naruto whose ultimate objective is to be a better version of himself, Parcero improves his skills inside the court through everyday practice.

Doing the first step to set the body, practicing daily routines and variations of trainings play a major factor in shaping the perfect condition to last in the zone. As former Ultimate Fighting

‘Di mo na mararamdaman ang pagod kapag nandoon ka na sa point na ‘yon (zone).

Championship (UFC) champion Anderson “The Spider” Silva stated, “If you train 100 percent, the result will be 100 percent.” With sports analysts calling him the greatest fighter in the octagon, the Spider went through hard training before he forged his mind and body’s mighty build that gave him the opportunity to dominate the UFC stage.

The aftermath After a fruitful time during their stay in the zone, there’s one dark

region athletes also visit—the zone of intense fatigue and frustrations.

Apparently, all of the tenacity they gained will suddenly shift into strains.

Even pound-for-pound mixed martial artist Silva cannot get away with these injuries. With his bid in reclaiming the title from Chris Weidman in the UFC 168 on December 2013, Silva broke his leg when Weidman checked an incoming low kick, which snapped Silva’s tibia in two. But with his strong will and passion for the sport, he came back and still competes inside the octagon until today.

As for our captain Lady Spiker, Nunag recounted her body’s condition after intense trainings, “Oo, athlete ka, araw-araw mong ginagawa ‘yon (training). Pero kapag minsan, may time na ‘yung katawan mo, hindi [sa tamang] kondisyon, parang ayaw kumilos, [at] parang ang bigat-bigat ng pakiramdam mo.”

Being one of the key players who push herself to the limit, frustrations still hit Nunag for a couple of instances. There came a time when she could not even stand up from her bed due to body pain, and decided to take a rest until she fully recovered.

*** With all the aptitudes that it can hand out to an athlete, the athlete’s zone is one important place that can put every player and every team on top of the rankings. Mastering the right mindset to enter the zone and learning how to deal with its repercussions will definitely give athletes the glimmering trophies they’re aiming for.

Sources: www.livescience.com www.exactsports.com www.athleticinsight.com www.fightland.vice.com www.espn.go.com www.breakingmuscle.com

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F E AT U R E D

The dash toward fitness DIGGING A CAGEBELLE’S SECRET TO ROBUSTNESS

Djoanna Nikole Javier and John Zedrick Simeon with a report from Queenee Manaog

Brandon Ocenar

Danna Claire Javier

A lot of people face difficulties balancing their passion and responsibilities. But giving up isn’t an option for most as their drive to succeed often pushes them to make the impossible possible. Challenged to set the right fulcrum, DLSU-D cagebelle Josele Jumawan hammers out her everyday battle against time and stability as a student-athlete by having a healthier body. Succeeding in her blubbery dilemma, the then-overweight Josele scaled down from extra-size to normal.

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Working off the weight The Patriot center shared that her past heavyweight self gave her problems as a basketball player. She recounted, “Mahirap kumilos, ‘di ka flexible [at] saka ‘yung cardio mo kasi [mahina]. Ang athlete kasi dapat medyo sanay sa pukpukan.”

Outside her natural ability, drills and training systems stimulated Josele’s well-adjusted physique. Exploring her enhanced build, she stated that her training is focused on building strength, power, speed, and endurance. With that Josele, and the lady dribblers usually start their routine by jogging 20 minutes a day. Jogging doesn’t only improve your cardiovascular fitness but also it burns your fat by using these extra weight as an energy source. Strengthening exercises generate muscle contraction that reinforces the cagebelles’ speed in the game. Granting aptness to their abdominal muscles, they also do core exercises like sit-ups, front planking, lateral movements, and push-ups. To tone their muscles, they also hoist lightweight kettlebells.

With DLSU-D’s substantial sports apparatus, Josele and the cagebelles have an essential tool called TRX Suspension Training. It is a fitness tool made from high quality nylon, has handles at the bottom, and is durable to hold up to 1400 pounds. It is a new gear that develops a more intense core exercise and at the same time creates a more effective practice.

Staying in shape Deciding to get fit doesn’t only involve working out, so Josele followed a

breakfast

“As much as possible, plenty of carbohydrates and protein should be offered for breakfast after a long sleep … Eat a small snack two to three hours after breakfast to keep your energy levels higher than the usual.”

Studied in University of Santo Tomas (UST) in her first 2 years UST Tigresses basketball team reserve Went to DLSU-D to bounce back from her team B experience During her stay in DLSU-D, Josele’s sporty passion also motivated her to become fit

lunch

“As an athlete, you need to eat a low-calorie meal for lunch that consists of fruits and vegetables.

Eat a low-calorie snack in mid-afternoon.“ To support these, the key at lunchtime is to maximize the amount of nutrients like potassium, while not going overboard on your calorie count.

proper diet, which is vital in maintaining a fit and healthy body. Despite the temptations and desire to eat more than what she only needs to consume, Josele remains strict with her eating habits to stay in shape.

Considering her athlete life as one of the reasons for her major change, Josele made a life-changing sacrifice.

“Actually, my lifestyle before I entered my basketball career is I always eat what I want. I do or go whatever and wherever I want to,” she said.

Healthy meals are important for an athlete’s body to operate effectively.

“The main goal is to eat well-balanced diet consisting of carbohydrates, vitamins, and proteins. As an athlete, you need to eat more than the average person because you do a lot more than the regular person. But be sure to have healthy food choices for you to have better results,” shared Josele.

“These are the things that I’ve been considering when I started playing basketball, because you have to give importance to your health always as an athlete. Proper diet in a healthy way,” Joselle blissfully shared as she lives up to her renewed eating habit and everyday workout plan. *** Lifting gym equipment, eating green vegetables, and obeying the right diet plan isn’t as easy as preparing your instant noodles or munching on your favorite junk food. As our inspiring Lady Patriot proves, a change in your lifestyle will reflect on your everyday life. Pain may exist as a toll on hard work, but being consistent in pursuing a diet plan and exercise comes with a fulfilling reward—as good things come to those who sweat.

dinner

“Avoid eating late, if you eat a dinner high in fiber, it will help curb your appetite before bedtime.

Your final meal of the day should be well-balanced and rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates.”

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bLEACHERS "ADMU (Ateneo De Manila University’s) men’s volleyball team. They are known to be a powerhouse. I’m also a fan so it would be a dream come true playing with my sports idols."

Nathanael Layugan, ENV11

"Ginebra Kings. Para manalo na sila [kasi] all-around shooter [at] defensive player [ako]."

Jolo Franco Gabriel, MEE12

"Ateneo De Manila University’s Lady Eagles. It is one of my biggest dream to play with my dream school."

Kimberly Linero, BOM41

"Los Angeles Lakers. Because the fans are great and so that I can play with Kobe Bryant."

"Philippine Azkals. Since bata ako, gusto ko talaga ang football. Pinili ko sila kasi nandoon ‘yung passion nila sa laro. Never ko sila nakikitaan ng panghihina, they always strive for the best."

Mariel Javillo, JOU31

John Christian Ong, HRM22

"Lakers cheerleaders.

Because I’ve always wanted to be a cheerleader and [to be an] LA pride for the Lakers."

Camille Feliciano, COM31

"Golden State Warriors. Because I want to have the chance to play with the most famous three-point shooter and 2015’s MVP Stephen Curry."

Ariadna Dagaraga, HRM33

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If you are given a chance to be a part of a sports team for one game, what would it be and why?

"Los Angeles Lakers.

Because Kobe is retiring and I want play with the man who changed the game into something big."

"University of Santo Tomas’ men’s volleyball team. I want to play volleyball and it is my favorite sport."

Jan Limuel Despi, HRM22

Lenard Anciro, BOM22

"Oklahoma City Thunders. Because I am good at three point shooting and I will replace Kevin Durant."

Miel Laviste, ECE31

"Team Gilas. I want to play with other big guys out there overseas and I want to represent our own country."

"Miami Heat. Because I want to be the very best like no one ever was."

Michael Gil Valino, CEE23

Anjelo Dipad, MEB11

"Chicago Bulls. I’d love to play with Derrick Rose and his team."

Matthew Joseph Riego de Dios, ECE32

"De La Salle University Lady Spikers. I would like to be a part of their team because of their fighting spirit and teamwork."

"Chicago Bulls. Para makasama ko ‘yung idol ko na si Derrick Rose."

Kervin Maranan, BPE31

Shaine Umali, BOM23 JustPlay | 33

H E A LT H

A champion’s blueprint Examining the ATHLETE’s anatomy Ezekiel Coronacion

John Chesleigh Nofiel

The vigor and tenacity of our ideal superheroes aren’t always acquired through gamma radiation or from alien parents from Krypton—even Batman’s finesse would be non-existent without arduous workout and training. Surprisingly, these well-known superheroes share the same features with athletes such as muscular strength and flexibility that are required for executing strenuous activities.

Though a dissecting kit isn’t required, examining a jock’s components will help an individual attain physical fitness with ease and discern the athlete’s hustle and bustle inside the court. Acquiring these fundamentals might not make one a superhero, but once these essential abilities are developed, it can help an athlete drive their match smoothly and be physically fit.

Hercules’ gift Lifting those dumbbells won’t make you look dumb as this workout can help you attain vigor and strength. Muscular strength is focused on rapid surges of power and maximum exertion of energy compared to endurance or withstanding wear and tear. Essential for athletes, engaging yourself in sports requires force from your muscles to push and unleash intensive power. Possessing supreme strength can help you to achieve easier locomotor performance, to decrease the risks of having injuries, and enhance tendons for stronger movement.

Guts and resistance Holding your pee until you get into the nearest lavatory can be considered as endurance, but similar to this urinal restraint, endurance and stamina are vital for a jock’s durability inside the court. Compared to endurance, which is affiliated with withstanding hardship and pain, stamina involves heart rate and respiratory activity associated with athletic power. Endurance and stamina both focus on enhancing breathing and heart rate through strenuous exercises like jogging and swimming.

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In a flash An athlete’s speed is not about using Hermes’ magical shoes or Galilei’s equation speed = distance/time. This involves the rapid movement that assists runners and sportsmen in sprinting and with quick maneuvers. According to topendsports.com, speed and agility are essential for success in many sports. In contrast to speed, agility is defined by a swift change of direction and can be seen in sports like basketball cross overs and the rapid swinging of arms in badminton. Through intense sprinting and practicing rapid responses, an athlete’s agile momentum and capability are intensified.

Mr. Fantastic’s flair When you stretch your arms out and yawn furiously in the morning, you are actually flexing your tendons while expanding your bones and extending the length of your body. Not only for gymnasts, flexibility and coordination can compel an athlete’s capability in bending and lifting for specific sports like volleyball and swimming. Placing your legs behind your head isn’t necessary, but you can easily attain suitable flexibility through a simple neck rotation and leg arm raise routine.

Strategical psyche Jocks don’t only use muscle power as they also need to strategize and work between the ears. Although muscles are essential, brainpower can overpower vigor through strategical and critical analysis, which athletes should exhibit to grab the trophy. Exercising doesn’t only enhance your physique but it also trains your brain to improve muscle memory and thinking skills.

Muscle memory boosts the muscles’ efficacy and conscious effort in an activity through recognition of repetitive movements. No matter how the physical body works, you also need to develop a proper mindset that even kryptonite can’t overpower.

*** Before wearing your gym shoes and entering the realm of sports, keep in mind that developing these elements contribute not just to an athlete’s expertise but also to their wellness. As you learn the champions’ blueprint, you’ll realize that it’s not all about the beefy muscles and sexy physique of a jock—it’s the coordination of the mind and body in order to reinforce dexterity and amplify the team’s fate to victory.

Sources: www.quora.com www.active.com www.topendsports.com www.menshealth.co.uk www.bringithomepersonaltraining.com www.active.com www.mensfitness.com

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Just Play Vol. 9 | MAY 2016

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