University and Colleges Athletic League is ready to launch its eighth season on October 9 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City, with an expanded sports lineup that promises more action and excitement for all participating schools.
This development follows the decision of the Policy Board — comprising nine member schools — to include badminton and table tennis in the calendar of events, bringing the total number of sports to six and events to seven.
In addition to its centerpiece basketball tournament, UCAL will also feature men’s and women’s volleyball, 3×3 basketball, esports, and street dance.
“It’s going to be another exciting season with the addition of two more sports,” said UCAL Executive Director Horacio Lim during the ceremonial turnover of hosting duties to Centro Escolar University.
“The more events we have, the more rivalries we build — and that’s healthy for the league,” Lim added, extending his gratitude to outgoing Policy Board President and former Senator Nikki Coseteng of Diliman College for her school’s exceptional hosting of Season 7.
Coseteng officially passed the UCAL flag to CEU Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Carlito Olaer, who accepted it on behalf of CEU President Danilo L. Concepcion.
Lim, joined by league CFO Bernard Yang and Vice Chairman Carmelo Navarro, emphasized that the inclusion of new sports reflects the league’s continued growth. He also acknowledged the commitment of school owners and administrators in ensuring that UCAL remains vibrant and competitive across all events.
In Season 7, Olivarez College ruled the men’s basketball tournament, but it was the University of Batangas that stood out as the most decorated school, capturing titles in men’s volleyball, 3×3 basketball, and defending its esports crown.
Immaculada Concepcion College made a memorable debut by winning the women’s volleyball championship, while CEU claimed the inaugural street dance title.
Other participating institutions for Season 8 include Manila Central University, Philippine Women’s University, Lyceum of the Philippines University–Batangas, and Philippine Christian University–Dasmariñas.
