Before the UAAP Season 85 tournament begins in September, National University will first represent the Philippines in the 20th ASEAN University Games.
The Bulldogs will defend the crown it won four years ago in Naypyidaw, Myanmar when the regional meet takes place from July 26-August 6 in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
Back in 2018, the team spearheaded by Bryan Bagunas took down Thailand, 27-25, 25-21, 22-25, 25-20.
It was the only gold won by the Philippines during that year’s edition of the meet.
The AUG was not held in 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The Athletics Office of National University submitted a 15-man preliminary pool to the organizers.
Headlining the team are Joshua Retamar, Nico Almendras, transferee Kennry Malinis, and foreign student-athlete Obed Mukaba.
Also part of the squad coached by Dante Alinsunurin are Leo Aringo, Marc Bandola, Clarence Belostrino, Louis Lumanian, Leo Ordiales, Jann Sumagui, Rwenzmel Taguibulos, Michaelo Buddin, Jomar Ocampo, and Marco Maciang.
Surprisingly, Bryan Bagunas, who currently plays for B.League club Oita Miyoshi, is also part of the pool.
Bataan Swimmers part of Team Pilipinas
The Philippines also submitted the names of five swimmers from Bataan Peninsula State University.
Patricia Cuntapay, Rose Ann Violeta, and Azel Olivera will compose the distaff’s team while Lloyd Mambaje and Ralph Roque are the men’s swimmers.
