Ariel Magnaye has been a champion for most of his life, collecting titles in both national and international tournaments.
The current head coach of the national squad recently added another title to his collection, teaming up with Christian Bernardo to win the 2024 Philippine Badminton Open men’s doubles crown.
Although he didn’t initially focus on badminton at a young age, Magnaye’s surname has become synonymous with the sport. For the badminton prodigy, excelling in the game has always felt natural. His talent was evident in the titles he earned while playing for both University of Santo Tomas and National University in the UAAP.
Magnaye believes that winning a championship starts with a solid foundation, saying, “Siguro ‘yung mindset ko nung UST and NU days ko, lagi lang nasa isip ko is nagte-training ako. ‘Yung hirap ng ginagawa ko, gusto ko laging may resulta. ‘Yung kaba kasi nand’yan na ‘yan pero ‘yung pinakamalakas sa ‘kin is ‘yung puso at utak ko na manalo.”
He credits much of his success to the guidance and high standards set by his father, Ronald Magnaye, in badminton.
“Malaking factor ‘yung na-guide ako ng papa ko, kasi lahat ng nae-experience ko ngayon, napagdaanan na niya. Lagi niya lang akong nire-remind sa kahit anong ginagawa ko,” said the UAAP Season 73 Rookie MVP.
Magnaye’s mindset of a champion, combined with the determination of the UP women’s badminton team, led to their long-awaited 10th UAAP title.
For Magnaye, this achievement was the result of a perfect partnership between him and the team. His role as head coach made it easier for him to motivate the players to clinch the championship.
“Yung inisip lang nila is kung paanong mag-bounce back this season. Lahat kami nag-sacrifice para makuha ‘tong kampeonato na ‘to kasi antagal na nilang hindi nakukuha ito. Lahat sila nag-work hard, siguro ‘to na ‘yung reward para sa kanila,” said the 2014 Swiss International men’s doubles champion.
Though Magnaye has accomplished so much in his badminton career, this first title as head coach of the Fighting Maroons is a significant addition to his trophy cabinet.
“Ang pagiging champion ng UP ngayon ay isa sa mga greatest achievements ko dahil ang UAAP ang isa sa mga major events in sports dito sa Pilipinas,” the second-generation shuttler concluded.
