National University and the University of the Philippines kick off their title defenses in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively, as the UAAP Season 88 Badminton Tournament serves up a full day of action on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila.
The Bulldogs will rely on reigning MVP Lanz Zafra and former national team standout James Villarante in their bid for a 10th UAAP championship in 12 years. For long-time head coach Jaime Llanes, however, defending the crown will be no easy task, with every team fielding competitive lineups.
“My thoughts regarding this season are, actually, all the schools are already competitive na. We will try our very best to defend our title this season,” said Llanes.
“Our biggest competitor this season will be all of them, since all the schools have strong players. So every game we play, we’ll consider it a challenge for us.”
NU will be hard-pressed as they enter the season undermanned, without Solomon Padiz Jr. and Mark Velasco, but the seasoned tactician considers it a test of character for his remaining players.
“Yes, we are a little shorthanded, but I always tell my players that this season will be a big challenge for us. And I believe my players are up to the challenge,” he shared.
The Bulldogs open their campaign against the Adamson University Soaring Falcons at 8:00 AM.
Ateneo de Manila University will count on Arthur Salvado Jr. for his final year, hoping to reclaim the title the Blue Eagles lost last season.
Former junior standout Jamal Pandi and Season 86 co-MVP Lyrden Laborte will support Salvado’s charge.
Meanwhile, Jelo Albo and returning Kervin Llanes will spearhead UP’s attempt to end a streak of third-place finishes in the men’s division.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
In the women’s division, the Fighting Maroons return with Season 87 MVP Anthea Gonzalez and Susmita Ramos, aiming for an 11th UAAP crown. They open against the Adamson Lady Falcons at 1:00 PM.
“For me, there is a great chance na madefend namin yung title; nakita ko naman ang sacrifices and performance ng bawat player sa preparation. And of course, meron rin kaming rookies na alam kong kayang magperform, kailangan lang nilang ma-overcome ang crowd ng UAAP since new experience ‘yun for them,” said UP head coach Ariel Magnaye.
Ateneo remains a formidable contender with Mika De Guzman and the returning Jochelle Alvarez. Meanwhile, Ysabel Aurora and Karyll Rio will lead the NU Lady Bulldogs in pursuit of a breakthrough UAAP women’s title.
Rivals Ateneo and De La Salle University will feature in both the men’s and women’s competitions at 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM, respectively.
University of Santo Tomas completes the first round of ties, facing UP in the men’s division at 8:00 AM and NU in the women’s division at 1:00 PM.
