Anton Guariña, a senior forward for University of the Philippines, has been making waves in the UAAP Season 85 despite the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.
With the suspension of UAAP proceedings due to the pandemic for the past two years, Guariña looked at his situation from a different perspective.
“I really wanted to leave an impact on the team, for the next generation, especially on the incoming young players.
“In regards to what it means to be in UP, the legacy that I’m going to leave here in UP . It’s all about the hunger, the desire, coming together and embracing the struggle that I wanted to impart to the younger generation, and making the most of my last year here in UP,” Guariña shared.
Guariña’s desire to leave a legacy of hunger and impact came to fruition three years later. As a substitute in their match against University of the East, Anton scored his third goal of the season at the death, equalizing against the erstwhile league-leading team.
Although he could have scored a brace and the match-winner, the ball sailed wide as the referee signaled the end of the game. It was their third straight stalemate, but Anton remained hopeful.
“Yes, definitely,” Guariña quickly answered when asked if the squad can rise up from their current situation. “UP is doing everything they can. I see my teammates, the coaches, they’re giving everything they got. Everyone’s playing their roles and their responsibilities properly. And, of course, we got to commend every player for their sacrifices towards the team.
“And, of course, the winning mentality despite the struggles we’re having the past few games.”
Despite the four-game winless streak, Anton still believes that the team can rise up and make their mark in the UAAP Season 85. He and the rest of the Fighting Maroons will face De La Salle University on Thursday at 6:00 PM to close their first-round schedule.
Anton’s legacy of hunger and impact continues to inspire his teammates, especially the young players, to come together and embrace the struggle. His determination and resilience serve as a reminder that in the face of adversity, one can rise up and leave a lasting impact.
