In his senior year, Jomari Masangkay proved that he can thrive in moments that demand sharp instincts and split-second decisions.
On April 1, the 19-year-old midfielder proved why, delivering the decisive goal that propelled Far Eastern University-Diliman to a 1-0 victory over PAREF Southridge and punched the Baby Tamaraws’ ticket to the UAAP Season 88 High School Boys’ Football Tournament final.
Masangkay broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, pouncing on a rebound to slot the ball home from point-blank range. The opportunity came after Admirals goalkeeper Reign Deomampo made a spectacular initial save against forward Jacob Keleghan, only for Masangkay to react fastest and capitalize on the spill.
Despite his game-winning strike, the Grade 12 General Academic Strand student stayed humble, crediting the team for the triumph rather than his own heroics.
“I’m very happy kasi ‘di ko in-expect na makaka-goal ako ngayon,” he said.
“I’m happy kasi may naitulong ako sa team, and ‘di ko mag-go-goal ‘yun kung wala sila.”
Hailing from Compostela, Davao de Oro, Masangkay first laced up his boots in fifth grade and earned a spot on FEU-D after a successful tryout.
While making the team was a major milestone, he quickly learned that sustaining a winning culture is no easy feat.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Last year’s 2-1 finals loss to University of Santo Tomas ended the Baby Tamaraws’ 12-season championship streak, a defeat that has fueled this year’s campaign.
Now, FEU-D has the chance to reclaim the crown in a third consecutive championship clash against the Junior Golden Booters.
“Masaya kasi nakabalik na kami sa finals ulit — pangatlong kita na namin ‘to,” Masangkay said.
“Last year was so heartbreaking for us, kasi natalo kami. Gagawin namin ang lahat para makuha yung title at maibalik yung korona sa FEU. Pero it’s not an easy game kasi alam namin na lalaban din ang UST, kaya mag-prepare din kami.”
Beyond personal glory, Masangkay’s motivation lies in honoring the seniors who experienced last year’s heartbreak and can no longer seek redemption on the pitch.
“Yung mga seniors namin na alam yung sakit nung nangyari last time, nag-promise kami na ibabawi namin ulit,” he said.
