THE SCHOOL OF THE INFANT JESUS/ EZEE THE SCHOOL OF THE INFANT JESUS/ EZEE THE SCHOOL OF THE INFANT JESUS/ EZEE
OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATION OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATION OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATION
13 years of Helping in Shaping and Molding Minds of Success in Each Individual's Journey: The 13 years of SIJ/EZEE Sharing Education to all the aspiring dreamers.
February 17- 21 2025, The School of the Infant Jesus/ The Empowered Zone for Excellence
SIJ/EZEE Celebrates Valentine’s Day with Unity, Color, and Community Spirit
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February 14, 2025 Love was in the air as SIJ/EZEE transformed into a vibrant celebration of Valentine’s Day, uniting students and faculty in a spirited display of warmth, camaraderie, and school pride The festive atmosphere swept through the campus as hallways were adorned in colorful decorations, while students dressed to represent various relationship statuses, adding a creative and personal flair to the occasion
Classrooms buzzed with lively conversations, filled with both excitement and anticipation A crowd favorite made its return: the wedding booth, a lighthearted tradition where students playfully teased one another about their crushes Across all grade levels, interactive activities brought students closer encouraging laughter and playful banter among peers
Adding to the festive spirit, the senior class showcased their entrepreneurial talents by crafting thoughtful gifts and tokens These keepsakes allowed students to express appreciation not only toward romantic interests but also friends and teachers emphasizing that love takes many meaningful forms
A highlight of the day was the exchange of chocolates among students from different grade levels This simple gesture fostered bonds that transcended friendship, weaving a joyful spirit of togetherness throughout the school
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More than just a romantic celebration, Valentine’s Day at SIJ/EZEE became a platform to honor genuine connections and the supportive community that students find within the institution
The celebration went beyond the typical notions of the holiday, standing as a testament to the strong sense of identity and belonging fostered by the school In celebrating all forms of love friendship, mentorship, and more the event underscored SIJ/EZEE’s commitment to cultivating a caring and united student body
Ultimately, Valentine’s Day 2025 served not only as a celebration of affection but also as a heartfelt tribute to the friendships and people who make SIJ/EZEE a true home for all
February 18 - The grand parade was held in Xevera, MabalacatCity wheretheparticipatingstudentsfrom each grade level for the Ms and Mr SIJ/EZEE decorated their floats
With the 5 - day celebration of 13th founding annieversary at SIJ/EZEE, the EZEEians truly have funcelebratingit'sschoollegacyandachivementsthey make each year With this event it is truly unforgettaable that the whole community of the schoolwillcherishedthispieceofmemory
SIJ/EZEE Grand Recital Showcases Talent and the Spirit of Excellence
April 8, 2025 The Elementary Department of the School of the Infant Jesus – The Empowered Zone for Excellence in Education (SIJ/EZEE) took center stage as they proudly held their muchanticipated Grand Recital With an atmosphere brimming with excitement, cheers, and applause, the event opened to a beautiful symphony of voices, vibrant dance numbers, and heartfelt performances that left the audience in awe
Far more than a display of talent, the Grand Recital was a celebration of growth, unity, and the joyful spirit of being an EZEEian Each performance whether through song, instruments, taekwondo, or dance reflected the hard work, creativity, and passion of the students, supported wholeheartedly by their dedicated teachers It was a true representation of the love and collaboration that defines the SIJ/EZEE community
Parents watched proudly from their seats, capturing memories and cheering for their children Their presence was a testament to the strong bond between the school and families, reinforcing the idea that education is a shared journey of inspiration and support
Every class and specialization took part, from the youngest performers to the more seasoned talents What made the event exceptional was not just the artistry on display, but the evident unity across the school community students encouraging one another, teachers guiding with pride, and families beaming with joy
The Grand Recital continues on April 9, 2025, as Junior High School and Senior High School students take the spotlight, ready to exhibit their own sets of talents and accomplishments The entire two-day celebration reflects the unique spirit of excellence that lives within the walls of SIJ/EZEE
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E-Tournament Champions
Call of Duty: Mobile
1st Runner-Up: Bembangers Champion: Abbysal
Valorant
2nd Runner-Up: Humble Boys
1st Runner-Up: Ratboh Champion: Xenomyth Mobile Legends
2nd Runner-Up: Xenomyth
1st
Major Awards
1st Runner-Up
2nd Runner-Up
Male:
3rd Runner-Up
Junior
1st
Senior
2nd Runner-Up:
1st
Male: Kim Leonard Lacson
4th Runner-Up
Male: John David Yabut
5th Runner-Up
Male: Kenneth Pratt
Trashonista
2nd
1st
T Tayag
Best in Casual Wear – Mr Kyle Eldridge A De Guzman & Ms Joharha Alvien T Tayag
Best in Production – Mr Kyle Eldridge A De Guzman & Ms Joharha Alvien T Tayag
6th Runner-Up – Ms Cathrina Nicole C Raymont
Photogenic
Male: Kim Leonard Lacson
Female: Jean Dela Cruz
Best in Uniform Wear
Male: Jemuel Neri
Female: Jean Dela Cruz
Male: Joshua Sangil
Female: Jean Dela Cruz
Best
Female: Chlouie Manansala
Joy C Mendiola
1st Runner-Up – Mr Michael Joseph S Espiritu & Ms Joharha Alvien T Tayag
By: Aaron Cayle E Atim
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Chauncy Aldrich Roque: His Experience and His Journey
MABALACAT CITY, PAMPANGA The recently concluded Mr and Ms SIJ 2025 pageant showcased a dazzling array of talents, confidence, and school spirit Among the shining stars was Chauncy Aldrich Roque, a Grade 7 student from Wagner, who emerged as Mr. SIJ 2025 captivating the audience with his charm, grace, and perseverance
Despite the intense competition, Chauncy proved that strength and determination could outshine nerves He admitted to feeling overwhelmed and nervous on stage, especially during key moments of the event “I was very nervous and sweating a lot I felt self-conscious, but I managed to overcome it when my classmates, teachers, and my mom cheered for me, ” he shared in an interview
Behind his performance was a deeper motivation his mother, who inspired him to take the leap into the world of pageantry With her passion for modeling, she became his driving force By joining the contest, Chauncy not only honored her legacy but also took a bold step in building his own
Winning the title filled him with pride and gratitude He considered the moment he was announced as Mr SIJ 2025 the most unforgettable part of the event It marked the culmination of all the hard work, self-doubt, and breakthroughs he
Chauncy also expressed appreciation for his handler, who mentored him throughout the competition By attentively learning techniques and refining his stage presence, Chauncy built the confidence needed to perform with poise “I learned a lot and gained more confidence throughout this whole journey,” he said
More than a model on stage, Chauncy Aldrich Roque has become a role model for his peers showing that courage, humility, and determination can lead to great things. His advice to others: “Always listen to your mentors, be willing to improve, have self-confidence, and try your best The show must go on ”
Chauncy’s journey is a reminder that it’s not just about winning the crown it’s about growth, inspiration, and becoming the best version of yourself, one brave step at a time
2025: The Journey of Chlouie T. Manansala
By: Jolina Gustafsson
In her journey, Chlouie T Manansala didn’t just shine under the spotlight she became a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to dream, even when the stage feels too big
MABALACAT CITY, PAMPANGA Grace, poise, and perseverance defined the recently concluded Mr and Ms SIJ 2025 pageant at the School of the Infant Jesus – EZEE Among the radiant faces that lit up the stage, one stood out: Chlouie T Manansala, a Junior High School student who emerged as Ms SIJ 2025
For Chlouie, the journey was more than just walking down a runway it was about self-discovery, resilience, and growth Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “It’s tiring, but looking back on it now, the experience was also fun In these moments, despite feeling different emotions all mixed together ”
The competition wasn’t without its challenges From balancing preparation with academics to handling the pressure of performing in front of a large crowd, Chlouie admitted to moments of doubt Yet, her mindset and drive pushed her forward “Remember not to give up, because you will manage to power through it all, no matter how much you doubt yourself right now Despite how hard it may be, it'll all be worth it in the end,” she shared
That determination and belief in herself fueled her every step on stage, allowing her to embody the spirit of Ms SIJ with elegance and authenticity With each graceful movement and confident answer, Chlouie proved she was not just performing she was inspiring
Crowned as Ms SIJ 2025, Chlouie now carries with her not just the title, but the experience of having faced her fears and emerged stronger Her story reminds every young woman that success comes not just from talent, but from courage, persistence, and the refusal to let self-doubt win
Feature Feature SECTION SECTION
She
Was the Compass: A Tribute to Ms. Kyla Rhose L. Ramos
In the quiet return of voices to the halls of SIJ-EZEE, there was a silence that many didn’t notice at first the silence of unwritten stories, unheard voices, and a school paper that had been paused by time and circumstance But in August 2023, something changed A teacher arrived not just with her credentials, but with a vision that reignited something more
Ms Kyla Rhose L Ramos, a graduate of Angeles University Foundation and a licensed educator as of September 2023, joined SIJEZEE with the quiet intent of bringing life back to what had been set aside When she took on the role of adviser, The Compass was just a name faded, uncertain But with her passion for writing and her belief in student potential, it slowly found its direction again
She called it “a revival,” and that’s exactly what it became
Restarting a school publication after years of silence was not easy The first months were filled with uncertainties, learning curves, and the challenge of building something from almost nothing But Ma’am Kyla never let any of it dim her fire She guided us with patience and honesty, never demanding perfection, only growth She listened, she encouraged, and she always reminded us that our words had weight
Under her guidance, The Compass became a space for expression, for finding courage in writing, and for telling the stories that matter She reminded us that we didn’t have to be the best we just had to be sincere And slowly, we began to write again Because she believed in us, we learned to believe in ourselves
As she now steps down from her role, she leaves behind more than published articles and edited drafts She leaves behind a generation of students who saw their worth because she helped them see it She leaves a mark that cannot be erased, even after the pages turn
In her words, she hopes The Compass continues to thrive and that students realize they can be more than who they are within the four walls of a classroom We promise to carry that vision forward
To our beloved adviser, thank you Thank you for being our light when we were unsure Thank you for every draft you read, every meeting you stayed late for, and every word of encouragement you gave This year’s success is not just ours it’s yours, too
You were never just our adviser You were our compass
And for everything you gave, we are deeply, genuinely grateful
A Name Once Whispered, Now Etched in Legacy
Compass
Once, it was a word uttered in passing a name that drifted through the air, heard but not held It carried no weight, no direction, only a sense of what could be A title on paper A whisper of something once alive and now waiting to be found again
But then came the words
The stories The meetings that lasted beyond the final bell The quiet tapping of keys in late hours, the sound of deadlines breathing down our necks The careful crafting of every sentence to reflect truth, the careful silence before every piece was finally published Compass began to lead
And with it, we followed
It became more than an organization It became a duty an invisible thread stitched into the heart of every student who dared to write, to report, to reflect Journalism, we realized, was not just about news It was about history It was about memory It was about making sure the things that matter would not be forgotten
And behind every article was a team Behind every photo caption, every typo fixed, every layout designed, was a soul that believed this mattered The leadership was never easy It was quiet at times Heavy, often But it was always worth it Compass did not build itself it was built by the hands of students who gave more than what was required, because something in them knew this was home
This year, Compass 2024–2025 signs off
And as I lay down the weight of being Editor-in-Chief, I do so with both sorrow and pride Sorrow that this chapter ends Pride that we wrote it well
This is not just the end of a term It is the passing of a torch one I hope will continue to light the paths of future writers, editors, artists, and leaders My name may fade from the masthead, but my heart will always echo in its pages
To those who remain and those yet to come: may Compass continue to be more than a name May it be your direction when you are lost Your voice when you feel unseen Your quiet sanctuary when the world grows too loud May it help you find your home
And if ever you wonder whether what you write matters look around The paper in your hands is proof that it does – Samantha, Editor-in-Chief, Compass 2024–2025
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The Quiet Weight of Academic Validation
By Samantha Louise Dante
They often ask, "Who am I without my academic achievements?" And truly, that question hauntsmorestudentsthanwecaretoadmit
In a world that claps only for medals and perfect scores, many learners grow up believing their worth begins and ends with their report card They try They thrive They exhaust every ounce of energy just to keep proving that they are more than average And yet, even after the applause fades and certificates pile up a hollow ache lingers It is not joy that follows the victory,butmerelyasighofrelief
Students are praised for being smart, for being consistent achievers, but deep inside they ask themselves Am I really intelligent or just disciplined enough to destroy myself for these numbers? The sleepless nights The silent breakdowns The tears shed alone under dim lights Allofitgetshiddenbehindglowingremarksandribbons,asifpainhasnoplaceinsuccess
Behind every 100 written in red ink is a child asking if they are enough Not for themselves, but for the standards set by others by parents and even their peers The weight of comparison creeps in when you’re told someone else did it better, faster, cleaner And suddenly, achievement feels like a race not a journey It becomes a desperate cry for validation You start measuring your existence by the expectations placed upon you and forget the sound of your ownheartbeat
According to psychologists people seek academic validation as a form of external assurance When intrinsic self-worth is lacking, they rely on grades as a mirror to reflect how valuable they are It is not vanity It is survival In many households and school systems, love and praise often come with a condition as long as you excel This conditional affirmation leaves students in fear of failure, believing that a single mistake erases every ounce of brilliance they onceheld
And so they burn out Quietly Tragically Because even when they do their best it never feels enough They trade memories for medals They silence joy for discipline They chase approval like it is the last thing keeping them alive Some no longer study for learning they study for love,forvalidation,forafleetingmomentwheresomeonewillfinallysay,Iamproudofyou
But must we really scrape away our own skin just to prove we deserve a seat at the table? Must wealwaysstretchourselvesuntilwebreak,justtohearasimpleaffirmationthatwematter?
Grades are a part of our journey, but they are not our whole story We are more than our GPA, more than the sum of our test scores Our worth lies in how we treat others, how we rise fromfailure,howwespeakwithkindness,howwelovewithsincerity
Let us remind the students who feel like they are only as good as their grades your value is not defined by a transcript Do not apologize for being tired Do not feel guilty for not always beingexcellent Youareallowedtorest Youareallowedtolive
Boiling Point: How Heatwaves Are Breaking Pampanga and Exposing a Nation’s Climate Crisis
By: Nicole Ann Buenafe
Pampanga is one of the provinces in the Philippines experiencing extreme high temperatures as a result of one of the country’s most severe heatwaves The area’s heat indices have risen above 43°C, pushing locals to the breaking point and prompting the government to suspend classes and issue red alerts While natural weather patterns like El Niño contribute and may have subsided, many believe that human activities are to blame for the increasing intensity of these heatwaves an alarming consequence of environmental neglect
The growing climate crisis has been worsened by urbanization, deforestation, and continued reliance on fossil fuels Without urgent action such as restoring green spaces and shifting to sustainable practices places like Pampanga will continue to suffer from rising temperatures Vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers are already facing heat-related illnesses like dehydration and heat exhaustion Hospitals are reporting a rise in heat stroke cases, revealing that this crisis is not just environmental but a critical public health emergency Yet, despite these clear warnings, long-term solutions remain scarce and climate policies slow to take effect
The Impact of Social Media: The Bright Side of a Digital Age
By Queenzel Shiloh Abella
In a world increasingly defined by digital landscapes, social media has emerged as one of the most powerful tools of the 21st century While its drawbacks are often spotlighted, it’s equally important to recognize and celebrate the immense positive impact social media has made on our lives From fostering global connections to amplifying once-silenced voices, it has transformed the way we interact, learn, and grow
One of the most remarkable aspects of social media is its ability to connect people across borders It has turned the world into a global village where friendships flourish across continents and cultures blend through shared experiences Long-distance relationships are easier to maintain, and communities form around mutual passions and interests, regardless of geography
Social media is also a platform for empowerment. It has given voice to the marginalized and space to movements that might have otherwise been ignored From the Arab Spring to #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, social media has served as a catalyst for real-world change, allowing individuals to speak up, organize, and demand justice It has become a digital megaphone for those who were once silenced
Beyond activism, social media is a thriving space for creativity and inspiration Artists, musicians, writers, and creators now have the opportunity to share their work with a global audience without needing approval from traditional gatekeepers This democratization of content has led to a creative renaissance, where diverse stories are celebrated and anyone with a message can be heard
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This extreme weather event serves as a stark reminder that climate change is no longer a distant threat it is here, heating up homes, classrooms, and entire communities The question is no longer if but how much worse the future will get if urgent measures are not taken
Opinion: A Call to Wake Up and Act
The relentless heatwave gripping Pampanga should awaken us all to the grave consequences of our collective inaction It is easy to see climate change as an abstract, distant problem something that belongs to faraway places or future generations But the scorching heat, the rising illnesses, and the suspended classes tell a different story Climate change is personal, local, and immediate
Our environment is not merely a backdrop for human activity it is the foundation of life itself The destruction of forests, unchecked urban sprawl, and dependence on fossil fuels are wounds inflicted on this foundation The suffering of Pampanga’s residents is a mirror reflecting the price we all pay for environmental neglect
We cannot afford complacency It is not enough to sympathize or issue warnings We need decisive, sustained action Restoring green spaces, enforcing stricter environmental regulations, and transitioning to clean energy are not optional; they are urgent necessities Government agencies must lead, but the power of communities and individuals to demand change cannot be underestimated
Moreover, social media has revolutionized the way we access and share information. News spreads faster than ever, and educational resources are more available to those with internet access From learning a new language to understanding complex world events through infographics, social media empowers people to educate themselves and others in engaging, interactive ways
Like any tool, the impact of social media depends on how it’s used When approached mindfully, it has the power to uplift, unite, and inspire. It reminds us that despite our differences, we are part of a shared human experience one that is being written in tweets, captured in Instagram posts, and brought to life through videos on platforms like TikTok and YouTube
In short, social media is more than just a pastime It is a powerful and transformative force that continues to shape our world in meaningful and positive ways
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The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reminds us that voting is not just a right but a responsibility a powerful tool to choose leaders who truly represent the people As the country moves forward with its newly elected senators, it is up to every citizen, especially the youth, to hold them accountable and to continue pushing for genuine change Your vote matters always. And with a more awakened electorate, there is hope that the government will become more attuned to the people’s needs and the country’s future.
Pula sa Puti: Who Will Be The Lesser Evil?
Students Struggling Between Rising Costs and Stagnant Allowances
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With the 12 Senate seats contested in the May 12, 2025 elections, the political landscape of the Philippines has entered a new chapter. The rivalry between President Ferdinand Marcos and former President Rodrigo Duterte, once allies but now divided, shaped the campaign and the coalitions Marcos’ "Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas" and Duterte’s "DuterTen" each seeking to expand their influence over the country and its people Now that winners have been proclaimed, it is clear that the nation did not simply settle for familiar faces or old political clans. Amidst the usual political drama, there are senators who stand out for their genuine commitment to serve and uphold the country’s democracy These leaders offer hope that, despite a system often criticized for its flaws, progress is still possible. Even more encouraging is the fact that more and more young Filipinos are waking up to the importance of their role as voters The youth are beginning to see beyond popularity and name recall; they are learning to critically assess candidates’ platforms, track records, and integrity This growing political awareness is a promising sign that future elections will be shaped by more informed and responsible choices.
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Being a student today feels like walking a financial tightrope On one side, the cost of living rent, groceries transport andbasicnecessities risesyearafteryear Ontheother studentallowancesremain frustratinglystagnant barelyadjustingtoreflecteconomicrealities Thisgrowingimbalanceismorethan just a financial problem; it’s a constant source of stress that many students carry silently while trying to focusontheireducation
Living expenses have skyrocketed, and rent is often the heaviest burden, especially in cities near universities where affordable housing is scarce Utility bills, internet costs, groceries which now often feel like luxury items and transport quickly add up, unraveling even the most careful budget Meanwhile,studentallowancesseemfrozenintime,failingtokeeppacewithinflationorthetruecostof survival
This situation is not just inconvenient it’s unfair Students are expected to excel academically, juggle internshipsorpart-timejobs,stayinvolvedintheircommunities,andpreparefortheirfutures allwhile worryingaboutaffordingrentornextweeksgroceries Thisconstantpressurechipsawayattheirmental healthandwell-being Somearguethatstudentsshouldsimplyworktosupportthemselves andmanydo But balancing demanding studies and work is no easy feat Most degrees require long hours of reading assignments and lab work Adding a job on top of that risks burnout lower grades and in some cases droppingoutaltogether Isitfairtoaskstudentstosacrificetheireducationjusttomakeendsmeet?
The financial pressure is not equally shared Students from wealthier families can rely on support, but many especially first-generation students or those from low-income households depend on student allowances as their only safety net When that net fails, so does their ability to continue We often talk aboutinvestinginthefuture,butifwedon’tinvestinstudents,whatfuturearewebuilding?
It is time for governments and policymakers to recognize
Assist or Escape: How Are We Really Using AI?
Artificial Intelligence tools like ChatGPT have quickly become part of everyday life, offering a vast array of possibilities from brainstorming ideas and managing time to personalized learning and instant feedback When used thoughtfully, AI serves as a powerful assistant, enhancing creativity and supporting students in areas where they struggle It is, without a doubt, a tool with immense potential to empower users rather than threaten them
However, the real issue lies not within the AI itself, but in how we choose to use it Too often, students treat AI not as a helpful guide, but as a shortcut copying and pasting responses without engaging in the critical thinking or effort that true learning demands This misuse is not a flaw of the technology; rather, it reflects a failure on our part to uphold responsibility and integrity in our work AI does not replace effort or understanding those who misuse it only cheat themselves
The challenge we face is teaching students to use AI ethically, emphasizing digital integrity as an essential skill It is about knowing when to lean on AI for support and when to rely on one’s own reasoning With proper guidance, AI can be a catalyst for deeper, more meaningful learning not an escape from it
Ultimately, technology is a reflection of its user AI is only as valuable as the responsibility we bring to it We are not victims of the tools we create; we are shaped by how we choose to wield them
Grit and Grind: The Road to CLRAA 2025
The journey to becoming a competitive athlete is never easy For many of the swimmers and athletes competing in this year’s CLRAA, preparation has been a test of physical endurance, mental toughness, and unwavering dedication
Training is the foundation of their success long hours in the pool, relentless drills, and pushing through moments of exhaustion and doubt. What started as simple lessons or casual practice sessions evolved into rigorous daily routines Early on, some athletes struggled with the demands of training, feeling the weight of fatigue and the temptation to quit Yet, through persistence, they saw gradual improvements what once seemed impossible became routine, and challenges transformed into stepping stones
Preparation goes beyond physical training Athletes face the pressure of balancing academics, family, and personal challenges, all while maintaining focus on their goals The mental strain is significant, especially with major competitions looming Many have learned to embrace nerves and uncertainty as part of the journey, trusting in their hard work and placing faith in the process.
In the crucial week leading up to the competition, strategic rest and injury prevention become key. Athletes dial back on intense workouts to ensure they arrive at the event both physically and mentally ready to perform at their best Every detail from finetuning technique to mental visualization is carefully attended to.
This blend of discipline, sacrifice, and resilience defines what it means to compete at CLRAA The hard work paid off spectacularly, with outstanding performances including:
Shan Kervie Medina
200m Freestyle – Bronze
200m Individual Medley – Bronze
4x100m Freestyle Relay – Silver
Fj Catherine Cruz
200m Backstroke – Gold (QTS)
100m Backstroke – Gold (QTS)
50m Backstroke – Gold (QTS)
200m Freestyle – Gold (QTS)
100m Freestyle – Gold (QTS)
4×50m Freestyle Relay – Silver
These accomplishments not only highlight their individual talent but also their relentless commitment to training and excellence As they proudly represent their schools and regions, their journey serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Congratulations to all the champions of CLRAA 2025. Your dedication and achievements truly embody the spirit of sportsmanship and perseverance.
