The NCAA has always produced athletes that have represented the country well. And the tradition continued during the recently-concluded 29th Southeast Asian Games.
During the halftime festivities of the NCAA Season 93 All-Star Game, the Grand Old League recognized the student-athletes from each school that gave honor to the country in the regional meet.
For the JRU Heavy Bombers, silver medalist in triple jump Mark Harry Diones led the cast. Melvin Calano, athletics coach Jojo Posadas, and netball assistant coach Jose Serrano were part of JRU’s representatives.
Larong Volleyball ng Pilipinas Inc. president Peter Cayco was honored by Arellano together with trackster Immanuel Camino and football player Roberto Corsane Jr.
SEA Games gold medalist in hockey Miguel Serrano led the Perpetual contingent together with spikers Relan Taneo and Jack Kalingking, and trackster Francis Medina. Coaches Sandy Rieto and Sammy Acaylar and POC board member Jeff Tamayo were also recognized.
Mapua, on the other hand, were represented by Sean Guevarra and coach Edgardo Alejand, while San Sebastian handed the national team with Melvin Guatre (athletics).
Lyceum also had a hand in the Philippines’ haul. Ice hockey gold medalist Daniel Pastrama led the Pirates delegation with Ronne Malipay (athletics – long jump), coach Popoy Clarino (football), and Ruperto Zaragosa (golf).
Letran trackster and bronze medalist Christian Bagsit gave honor to the Knights together with coach Brian Esquibel and Ronald Dulay (volleyball).
Rounding up this batch of NCAA representatives in the SEA Games were Benildeans Ryan Jacolo (table tennis), Aresa Lipat (swimming) and SEA Games 4x100M bronze medalist Anternee Lopena.
Overall, the NCAA helped give the country a gold, a silver, and two bronze medals.
