Even before the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ Football Tournament kicked off last Saturday, University of Santo Tomas standout Joshua Moleje had already made headlines.
The 16-year-old winger earned a scholarship to train with Spanish second-division side Levante Unión Deportiva after impressing scouts at an overseas youth tournament.
However, the proud son of Bacolod, Negros Occidental, emphasized that he is putting his trip to Spain on hold for now, focusing instead on helping the Junior Golden Booters in this year’s competition, which he believes is crucial for his development.
“I joined a team called the Azkals Development Team,” Moleje explained. “We played in the International Football Championships in Bali, Indonesia.”
Spanish selection coaches saw me play, and that’s why I was selected. I also won the Best Player of the Tournament award there.
“I’m planning to go to Spain after the UAAP. I think playing in the UAAP now is important because I’m playing with boys my age. It’s great preparation for Spain. (I’m) thankful to God, especially grateful ako sa Kanya and my team who supported me.”
Moleje — who represented the country in the AFF U16 Boys Championship in Indonesia last year — has big aspirations for his football career.
Coming from the province and carving a path in Manila is challenging enough, but doing so as a young student-athlete requires mental toughness and the ability to adjust both on and off the pitch.
Despite the challenges, the Grade 10 student is particularly grateful for how UST takes care of its players, allowing them to pursue their dreams.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“My dad used to be a football player,” Moleje shared. “I’m playing football to achieve the dreams he had when he was young. I started playing football when I was in Grade 3, at eight years old, playing in the hallways of my (former) school, La Salle Bacolod.
“UST has the best program. That’s why I chose UST. They’re the best in taking care of their players, from the dorms to food and allowances. They provide the best accommodation.”
After starting with a 5-2 victory over guest team PAREF Southridge, UST will aim for win number two against De La Salle Zobel this Saturday.
Unlike in previous seasons, this year’s tournament will feature a Final Four format, making the road to the March 29 final more challenging.
For Moleje, the opening win was just the first step in the Junior Golden Booters’ championship aspirations.
He emphasized that he and his teammates must stay focused and ready to face the challenges ahead.
“It was fun facing Southridge,” he said. “We’ve been preparing since the start of the school year. We prepared for this event, and I think we’re going to win the tournament.
“Our goal is to win the trophy. We’re planning to approach our next game with humility, treating it like every game we play.”
