Showing posts with label swimming. Show all posts

Sports: Junior Tankers swim their way to the podium



The University of the Philippines Integrated School Varsity Swimming Team (UPISVST) Junior Tankers bagged the 2nd runner up in the girls’ division of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 80 held last October 12 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Center, Manila.

Chelo Neri also clinched the Rookie of the Year award after her spectacular performance during the girls’ division.

Zoe Hilario succeeded in taking home 3 medals from her events. She clinched 1st in the 100 and 200 m Backstroke events and also bagged bronze in her 400m event.

“I think ‘yung performance ko okay lang pero it could have been better. To make next season better, I’ll work harder and focus on our goal more,” Hilario said when asked about her thoughts on her own performance this season.

Alongside Hilario, Cha Esmero placed 2nd in the Girls’ 200 m freestyle and 3rd in the 100 and 200 m backstroke and 400 m Freestyle events.

HEADS UP HIGH. Hilario and Esmero, along with Raven Alcoseba from De La Salle University (DLSU), receive their medals for the Girls’ 100 m Backstroke. Photo Credit: Swim Philippines

On the other hand, Drew Magbag was the lone medalist from the Boys Junior Tankers. Magbag took home a bronze, placing 3rd in his 50 m Breaststroke event.

One of their coaches, Denjylie Cordero, has a positive reaction regarding the overall team performance of the Junior Tankers.

“My assessment this season for the UPISVST is that they have leveled up on their character as an athlete. It is because they have become more matured. They’re braver this time around despite the fact that they lack on training. They fought from the start up to the end, with that I can see a better future for the junior team,” Cordero said.

All in all, the Junior Tankers did a good job this season, but they also promised to come back a lot stronger, fiercer, and more competitive in the next season. //by Yanna Reblando, Carlos Laderas, with reports from Jasmine Esguerra

Sports: UPIS Tankers ready for redemption



After clinching the bronze in the girls’ division and finishing sixth in the boys’ division last season, the University of the Philippines Integrated School Varsity Swimming Team (UPISVST) is armed and prepared with new skills and weapons for their University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 80 campaign.

Level Up

According to team captain and senior Ria Amano, the team started their land training last summer break. Two weeks prior to the UAAP, they conducted their simulation trainings to ensure readiness and composure.

They also had training sessions conducted thrice a week with the Philippine Swimming League and National Team Coach Marici Gandioncho to further develop their skills and strengthen their winning mentality. The team also acquired a boost in their coaching staff with the presence of Coach Jiji Cordero who monitored the team’s physical fitness through her weights training program.
Amano believes that the proper mindset is exactly what they need prior to the competition. “Mas malakas at mas ready kami this season,” she proudly stated.

TAKE YOUR MARKS. As their season inches closer, the UPISVST stands as one during their pre-season photo shoot. With heads held high and game faces on, the Junior Tankers are banking on unity and preparation to swim higher up the ranks. Photo Credit: Ellen Rose Baento-Galgana.

A Mix of Old and New

Aside from the improvements in their training program, the UPISVST is also banking on their two decorated rookies, who are expected to make a statement in their UAAP debut. All eyes are on Rikki Melencio, who qualified for the Southeast Asian Age Group Swimming Championships 2017, and Chelo Neri, a prized recruit from Paref Rosehill.

“Nilo-look forward ko po ‘yung maraming malakas na kalaban at new personal best times,” VAAS recruit Neri expressed.

Co-Captain Polo Uera also believes that their young guns will deliver and contribute in UPISVST’s redemption. “Masasabi ko po na very promising ang rookies namin this year [with one] Rikki, already being part of the Philippine team as well as Chelo who is already a bemedalled swimmer at a young age.”

Veterans Zoe Hilario, Cha Esmero, Chloe Fabic, and Suzy Uy are expected to lead the girls to another podium finish with their experience while the boys are counting on Uera and international stalwarts Drew Magbag and David De Layola to guide them in achieving better results.

The UPIS Junior Tanker competes in the UAAP80 Swimming Competition from October 12-15 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. // By Yanna Reblando, and Julian Taloma

Sports: UPIS VST veterans experience international stage



Ernest Arceo, David De Layola, Ryan Dimayuga, and Drew Magbag of the University of the Philippines Integrated School Varsity Swimming Team (UPIS VST) joined the Philippine Team in the recently concluded 29th Summer Universiade last August 19-31, 2017 in Taipei, Taiwan.

The Summer Universiade also known as the World University Games is an international sporting competition held in different countries biennially. The Philippine Swimming League held an open try-outs for swimmers and the 4 senior members of the UPISVST were chosen.

“Nakita ko na malayo pa yung level ng Philippine swimming compared sa ibang bansa like Italy,” De Layola said when asked about his thoughts after the competition. “Malayo pa ako sa peak ko,” he added.

Palarong Pambansa standout Magbag performed well in the 50m and 100m Breastroke and 4x100 medley relay but did not earn a podium finish.

Arceo and Dimayuga also tried to snatch a medal in their 4x100 Freestyle Relay Event but were overpowered by their European counterparts as Dimayuga and De Layola also fell short in the 100m Backstroke and 4x200 Freestyle Relay Event, respectively.

“Syempre blessed kasi napili for international competition. Once in a lifetime to para sa [amin] na marepresent ang Philippines,” Arceo shared when asked about his experience. “Sana next time magkaroon ulit ng opportunity,” he concluded. // by Bryan Lina, Carlos Laderas


FORTIFIED. UPIS swimmers who are part of the Philippine team brace themselves before their events in Universaide 2017 at the National Taiwan Sports University Arena. Photo Credit: Drew Magbag

Sports: Zoe Hilario invades SNAG



UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) swimmer Zoe Hilario bagged the silver medal in the 200M Backstroke event in the 15-17 age bracket of the 48th Singapore National Age-Group (SNAG) Competition at the (OCBC) Aquatic Centre in Singapore last March 14-19, 2017.

Hilario outclassed 23 other swimmers in the Finals A of her age bracket. She represented the Philippines and her club, Ace Seawolves in this event.


IN INTERNATIONAL WATERS. Zoe Hilario, together with other Filipino Swimmers, delivers a spectacular performance and brings home the bacon for our country. Photo Credit: Shirley Ann Pamplona-Burgos

“Sobrang saya and unexpected na magkakamedal ako kasi it’s an international compe[tition],” Hilario expressed. “Our only target was to get good times in our events,” the sophomore student-athlete added.

The SNAG Competition is a tournament for Singaporean swimmers to qualify for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games but foreigners who want to compete can also join. In this event, Singaporean nationals were prioritized leaving only four slots for the foreigner swimmers in the finals division.

According to her, she prepared for this tournament in the same way she gets ready for University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) season competitions. Despite having a lot of schoolwork, she doesn’t miss her trainings once on weekdays and twice on Saturdays. //by Carlos Laderas and Jaggie Gregorio

Sports: The Real MVPs



The Juniors division of UAAP Season 79 is over, but this doesn’t mean that our athletes’ battles are over. Rather, it is the start of a long and intensive preparation for the next UAAP season. Here are the players who showed brilliance in their sport and donned the colors of maroon and green with pride.

One-Two Punch: Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero

PARTNERS-IN-CRIME. Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero (L-R), the power duo of the UPIS VST Girls’ Team, bagged several medals as they represented UPIS in various swimming competitions. Photo Credit: Zoe Hilario


Despite the busy schedule of student-athletes, Zoe Hilario and Charize Esmero didn’t fail to show their undeniable dedication in all their swimming competitions. The numerous medals they won together with their other teammates paved the way for them to make it to the NCR Meet. During the last UAAP 79 Juniors Swimming Tournament, Hilario brought home 7 medals and broke the record in the 400m Individual Medley while Esmero brought home 4 medals. As they are only a sophomore and a junior, respectively, many are excited as they wait for them to unleash their full potential. Who knows? They might even lead the Junior Maroon Tankers to the top of the podium in the seasons to come.

 Crowd Favorite: Emerson Ebreo

ALWAYS READY. Even with his limited minutes, Emerson Ebreo still managed to contribute and energize the UPIS Junior Maroons in his own way. Photo Credit: Emerson Ebrero


It is a rare instance when a homegrown student makes it to the Juniors Basketball Team’s UAAP line up, but this definitely didn’t stop Emerson Ebrero. Last Season 79, Ebreo from Batch 2019 started his UAAP campaign. Even with limited minutes on the court, he made sure to make the most out of it. With his charm and “angas”, he effortlessly won the heart of the crowd, serving as the spark plug of the team. Hopefully, we will see more of him in the next competitions.

Lowkey Player of the Year: Jazper Pacis

BEWARE. Jazper Pacis surpasses his limits after winning Rookie of the Year in the UAAP Season 79 Table Tennis Tournament last October 2016. Photo Credit: Raymund Creencia


Many may not know about Jazper Pacis, the prized recruit of the UPIS Table Tennis team from Kings‘ Montessori. Despite being quiet and shy, this didn’t hinder him from showing what he is capable of. In fact, he was hailed as the UAAP79 Rookie of the Year in Table Tennis. Despite this huge success, he still keeps his feet on the ground and gives his heart out in every training to improve more in order to be one of the best.

Walk in the Park: Gyles Abac

LEGACY.  Since he was in Grade 5, Gyles Abac has been training with the Junior Maroon Tracksters. He stared making a name for himself when he debuted in UAAP 76 in 2013. Photo Credit: UPIS Track and Field (FB Page)


As a freshman, Gyles Abac watched the seniors from the sidelines and took it as an inspiration to work harder in trainings. His commitment and patience to Track and Field (TnF) paid off very well as he won a gold and a bronze in the recently concluded UAAP79. He also was the lone representative of the UPIS TnF team in this year’s NCR Meet. Aside from being athletic, he is also blessed with a talent in the field of art. Gyles is known as one of the most creative people in his batch with a knack for drawing and video-making. Recently, he participated in the SDG Youth Competition where his team made it to the Top 7.

Setting the Standards High: Urielle Lilang

VETERAN. Urielle Lilang proves that experience matters more than height as she led the UPISGVT in the last UAAP Season 79 Girls’ Volleyball Tournament. Photo Credit: Urielle Lilang


Three years of being the heart and soul of the Girls Volleyball Team, Urielle Lilang’s legacy is a hard act to follow. Because of her height, most won’t even think of her as a volleyball player, but once she steps on the court, her doubters immediately become her fans. As the team’s setter, setting up plays and being the manager of the team are her main tasks. Even with the huge responsibility put on her shoulders as the team captain, she still prioritizes her studies. In fact, she was one of the few students chosen to go to Japan for the cultural student exchange program of Saijyo Super Science High School last February 2016. //by Julian Taloma, Maica Cabrera and Beca Sinchongco

Sports: Winning Moments



In the recently concluded UAAP Season 79, the Junior Maroons proved that they can be what they are right now: athletes who made UPIS proud by playing their hearts out. With all the pressure and criticism they received off-season, they managed to shake it off with heads held high in the hopes of reaching their goals as representatives of their teams and of the UPIS community.

The Junior Maroons may have failed to bring home a championship this year, but we cannot deny the fact that each team has performed beyond expectations and surprised us with an outstanding Season 79 campaign.

One Team

GIRL POWER. The UPISVST Girls’ Team took home their third straight bronze finish at the UAAP Season 79 Swimming Competition last October 2016. Photo Credit: Ms. Anne Mapa

The incomparable bond that everybody sees within the UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) isn’t just seen in school. They aren’t just evident in photos they post online but mostly in their competitions. They have showed great unity in their games which was pivotal in ushering in their success, specifically in this UAAP season.

The Girl’s Swimming team racked up their third consecutive 2nd runner up finish in UAAP79 where they scored 238 points and brought home 15 medals. Their remarkable achievement was mostly led by sophomore Zoe Hilario, who also broke the former record in the 400m individual Medley. Sophomore Chloe Fabic and Junior Charize Esmero also helped Hilario in this season’s campaign.

The UPIS Boys Swimming Team, on the other hand, won 6th place in the competition. Senior Drew Magbag led his team by winning 2 silvers and a bronze medal.

The Beasts of the Tartan Track

ALL IN. The UPIS TnF Team faced many challenges in UAAP 79 but they still fought hard as one family. Photo Credit: Caila Cadiz

After finishing third last Season 78 in both boys’ and girls’ divisions, all eyes are on the UPIS Track and Field Team as they attempt to finish better in Season 79. However, problems struck them early in the season. Ace players sustained injuries while some were not listed in their assigned events. But this didn’t stop them from giving their best for the colors of maroon and green, which resulted to a fourth-place finish for both
teams.

Usual front-runners Gyles Abac, Forth Soriano, and Charles Epino performed well, bagging medals left and right. Meanwhile, debuting thrower Shaina Queri surprised the girls’ division, claiming the lone medal of the Junior Tracksters in the girls’ division.

With their vast improvement this season, there’s no stopping our Junior Dashing Maroons from exceeding expectations in future competitions.

Trust the Process

TEAMWORK. Despite falling short, the UPIS Basketball Team made the whole UPIS Community proud after their attempt at redemption in the UAAP Season 79 Basketball Tournament. Photo Credit: Teddy Manansala

The Junior Maroons may have failed to make it to the final four after losing two crucial games in the homestretch, but this season is one of their best showings in recent years. They are led by this season’s MVP, Juan Gomez De Liano and their seniors, BJ Lina, Jaggie Gregorio, and Joelo Tupaz .

They finished the season with 5 wins and 9 losses, which gave them a higher chance of getting the much-coveted Final Four ticket but was foiled by the DLSZ Green Archers.

They may lose several veteran and key players in the roster next season, but all they ask from the UPIS community is to trust the process and support them through and through.

Bright Future

BETTER FINISH. The UPIS Table Tennis Team finished 6th in the last UAAP Season 79 while the team’s newbie, Jazper Pacis, managed to bag the Rookie of the Year Award. Photo Credit: Melvin Lava

After four months of intense training and preparations, the UPIS Table Tennis team finished 6th overall this season. Veterans James Ecito, and Rene Rollon II showed amazing performances while Rookie of the Year Jazper Pacis surprised not just his opponents but the whole UAAP Table Tennis community after putting up a love-set performance against Adamson.

With an amazing rookie and a dedicated team that showed their potential in Season 79,
everyone can’t wait to see their games in the future.

Game Booster
LOUD AND PROUD. The UPIS Pep Squad displays a newer, fresher team look as they proudly wear their new uniforms sponsored by the Delos Santos Medical Center. Photo Credit: Claire Mapa


Screaming their lungs out every game, the UPIS Pep Squad surely deserves more recognition. They were the ones who pushed and cheered for the players to go all out in every game, through each win and each defeat. Because of their amazing half-time performances, they were able to attract a sponsor, the Delos Santos Medical Center, for their team shoes and uniform.

They may not compete as athletes, but expect that they are going to be present in every game. Behind every athlete’s success is a squad who is ready to bring out the athletes’ determination to win.

Nowhere to go But UP

All of the UPIS varsity teams indeed improved this UAAP season. The patience and hard work that they all dedicated have paid off. This season was indeed a blast not just for the student-athletes, but also the school they’re representing. The enthusiasm and support every UPIS student gives to all the varsity teams proves that each UAAP season is really something to look forward to. This season might be over, but more opportunities are to come for each team and its fans. As they bring the best of themselves in every game, who knows? Maybe soon we’ll see our teams crowned on the podium and rejoicing in triumph. //by Julian Taloma, Maica Cabrera and Hanna David

Sports: UPIS Swimmers participate in division meet, will represent QC in NCR meet



REPRESENT. Fabic, Esmero, and Hilario imitate the Oblation's out-stretched arms together with a fellow swimmer from Ateneo during their swimming division meet last Thursday.
Photo credit: Zoe Hilario


The UPISVST swimmers representing the school in the 2016 Swimming Division Meet qualified for the National Capital Region (NCR) Meet last Thursday, November 24, 2016 at the Amoranto Sports Complex, Quezon City.

Competing against other schools and universities, a number of members from the UPISVST garnered a total of 36 medals consisting of 23 golds, 13 silvers and will be representing Quezon City next year together with the other winners of the said competition.

The UPISVST’s preparation for the division meet left nothing to chance. “Kapag may competition, binabawasan yung workout 3 days before para ‘di sumakit katawan,” sophomore Zoe Hilario shared when asked about their groundwork in anticipation of the Division Meet. “Iniiwasan mag-skip ng training; kahit may quiz kailangan pa rin magtraining,” she added.

Hilario, together with Junior Charize Esmero, led the UPISVST in the Girls division, copped 8 golds, and 5 silvers combined.

Senior Drew Magbag also emerged victorious in the Boys Division, adding 4 golds and a silver.

Other UPIS Swimmers Chloe Fabic, Joshua Luc Sedurante, Mark Lazaro, Antonio Aquino, and David de Layola all contributed thru individual medals in freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, freestyle relay, individual and medley relays. //by Maica Cabrera and Julian Taloma

Sports: UPISVST Girls clinches 3rd in UAAP 79



ONE SWIM, ONE TEAM. The UPISVST Girls are all smiles as they receive second runner-up honors
in the awarding of the UAAP Season 79 Swimming Competition. Photo credit: Minette Maganto

The University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Girls Varsity Swimming Team swam their way to third place of the UAAP Season 79 Swimming Competition held on October 21-24 at the Rizal Memorial Complex.

The girls tallied a total of 238 points for their third straight 2nd runner-up finish since 2014.

Their spectacular performance was led by Zoe Hilario's record-breaking swim in the 400M Individual Medley where she timed 5:22.87 breaking the former record, 5:22.97, by a heart stopping millisecond.

“I felt really happy and proud,” Hilario said. “I didn’t know that I had the capacity to break the record.”

The team took home 15 medals with Hilario bagging a total of 7: 1 gold, 5 silvers, and a bronze. Charize Esmero won 4 medals, taking the gold in the 100M backstroke event, silver in both 800M and 400M freestyle, and bronze in 200M backstroke. Chloe Fabic also added a bronze medal in the 200M butterfly.

Esmero and Fabic, together with Isabel Baclig and Chesca Joves, took home the bronze in the 4x100 freestyle relay while Joves, her sister Franz, and juniors Rodgers and Luan Silvestre, won the silver from the 4x50 medley. Suzy Uy, Mae Rodgers, Jammy Mapa, and Waya Silarde earned a bronze in the 4x50 freestyle relay.

According to the girls’ team, they prepared well for this season. They trained every day and set a winning mindset before the season started. Moreover, they encourage each othe to do their best.

The UPIS Boys Swimming Team, on the other hand, finished 6th in the tournament. Veteran Drew Magbag led the team with 2 silvers and 1 bronze.

“I always try my best not to miss a day without swim,” said Drew Magbag when was asked about his personal preparations. “You dream, you plan, you work for it, and you achieve it,” he added.

Boys’ team captain JN Fajutagana said that they also prepared well for Season 79. “Nagcompare kami ng mga times namin sa relays kaso yung ibang teams lumakas,” he explained. “Next year mas magtetraining kami and mas magfofocus,” he promised. // with reports from Jaggie Gregorio, Nathan Ramos, Carlos Laderas, Blade Saliva, and Forth Soriano

Sports: Magbag clinches gold in Australian swim meet

Student-athlete Drew Magbag won a total of six medals in the Indian Ocean All-Star Challenge held in Perth, Australia last April 1-8.

Magbag brought home four (4) gold and two (2) silver medals and was able to break two records in the 200, Individual Medley and 200m Breaststroke.

When asked how he prepared, he answered, “Una, syempre po continuous and focused sa training, minimum of 6 times a week po ang swim. Pangalawa, dapat laging kumakain, 3 main meals and 3 snacks, wala naman pong diet na sinusunod. And last, a week before dapat hindi na po nagpupuyat.”

It was Magbag's first time to represent the Philippines in this international tilt.

“Super happy ako syempre and very proud ako sa sarili ko. Na kahit papaano may nauwi ako na medals and records even though hindi ko na-medal lahat ng events ko, I’m still very proud sa sarili ko,” he said when asked about how he felt about his achievements. / by Zita Pedragosa

Sports: UPIS VST members to represent the Philippines in international competitions

Drew Benett Magbag of 9-Silver and Pricila Loren Aquino of 10-Lauan, members of the UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (UPIS VST) will be participating in international swimming competitions this year.

Magbag was timed 1:10 in the 100m breaststroke in the Philippine Swimming League. His impressive finish became his ticket to entering the Indian Ocean All Star Challenge to be held in Australia in April.

On the other hand, Aquino’s 2:32 time in the 200m Individual Medley qualified her for the July World University Games in South Korea.

Together with other Filipino representatives, they will be competing against well-known swimmers around the world.

With high hopes, Magbag promised, “I will do my best and try to bring home the bacon,” while Aquino said, “I will try my best for the Philippines. (I will give my) full effort.” / by Patricia Enriquez and Quiela Salazar

Sports: UPIS VST, umani ng medalya sa UAAP 77

Naghakot ng medalya ang UPIS Varsity Swimming Team sa ginanap na UAAP Season 77 Swimming Competition noong October 2-5, 2014 sa Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Tinanghal na 1st runner up ang Junior Girls sa pangkabuuan. Samantalang nakuha naman ng Junior Boys ang ikaapat na pwesto. Season MVP naman ng Girl’s Division si Pricila Aquino ng 10-Lauan na nakakuha ng gintong medalya sa pitong events – 800m freestyle, 400m freestyle, 100m butterfly, 400m individual medley, 200m individual medley, 100m breaststroke, at 200m breaststroke.

Masayang itinaas ng mga miyembro ng UPIS Girls Varsity Swimming Team
ang kanilang first runner up trophy sa UAAP Season 77.
Photo credit: Mai Arciga
Sa Girls individuals, nasungkit ni Francheska Joves ang dalawang gintong medalya sa 50m backstroke at 100m backstroke at isang bronze sa 200m backstroke. Nakatanggap naman si Charize Esmero ng ginto sa 200m backstroke, silver sa 200m butterfly, at dalawang bronze sa 800m freestyle at 400m individual medley. Habang nakakuha naman si Drew Magbag para sa boys individuals ng tatlong bronze sa 200m individual medley, 100m breaststroke, at 200m backstroke.

Sa relays, nakamit nina Suzy Uy, Mary Llorente, Luan Silvestre, at Mae Rodgers ang ginto sa 4x100 medley. Samantala ang ang relay team naman nina Llorente, Rodgers, Uy, at Jasmine Esguerra ay nakakuha ng silver sa 4x100 freestyle relay. Para sa boys relay, nasungkit nina Glenn Anicoche, Daniel Directo, David De Layola, at Ernest Arceo ang silver sa 4x100 freestyle relay at silver sa 4x100 medley ang relay team nina Ryan Dimayuga, Daniel Directo, Aquila Esmeralda, at Ernest Arceo ay nakakuha ng silver sa 4x100 medley.

Hindi nakalaro ang team captain ng swimming team na si Juneau Villanueva dahil sa dengue ngunit nagpakita naman siya ng taos-pusong pagsuporta sa team sa pagbisita niya noong mga huling araw ng kompetisyon. Ayon sa kanya, malaki ang kanyang panghihinayang sa hindi niya pagsali sa kompetisyon dahil sa pagkakasakit. Gayunpama’y masaya siya bilang team captain sapagkat mas maraming naiuwing medalya ngayong taon, kumpara sa nakaraang taon. / nina Jesica Caneca at Jenn Elona

Zumba Part 2, muling sinuportahan ng UPIS Community

Muling dinaluhan ng kaguruan, magulang at mga estudyante ang Zumba Part 2 ng UPIS Varsity Swimming Team noong Biyernes, Agosto 22, 2014 sa College of Social Welfare and Community Development, UP Diliman.

Bukod sa sayawan, nagkaroon rin ng raffle na pinamunuan ng UPIS Varsity Swimming Team kung saan namigay sila ng mga neon towels para sa mga nakilahok.

Bagamat mas marami ang dumalo sa Zumba Part 1, naging masaya at makabuluhan rin ang ikalawang Zumba activity ng kuponan. Naging masaya at produktibo ang programa dahil na rin sa magandang adhikain ng mga ito. Liban dito, ito rin ang nagsilbing fund raising activity ng UPIS Swimming Team upang makalikom pondo na inilalaan naman nila sa kanilang mga darating na laban sa UAAP.

Naki-indak at sumuporta rin sa fundraising activity na ito ang UP College Swimming Team.
Sasabak sa UAAP Season ’77 ang UPIS Swimming Team sa ika-2 hanggang ika-5 ng Setyembre 2014. / nina Trisha Serrano at Juneau Villanueva

Mga mag-aaral at guro nakiindak sa Zumba with the Swimmers

Ginananap ang fundraising event ng UPIS Swimming Team na “Zumba with the Swimmers” noong Hulyo 25, 2014 sa UP CSWCD.
Photo credit: Juneau Villanueva

Ito ang kauna-unahang pagkakataong naisagawa ang ganitong uri ng fundraising event. Nakilahok sa Zumba ang ilan sa mga guro at staff ng UPIS, mga estudyante, at maging ang UP College Swim Team. Nagkaroon din ng raffle kung saan maaaring Manalo ng neon shirt at iba pa.

Gagamitin ang perang nakuha upang makatulong sa gastusin sa darating na UAAP sa Trace College, Los Banos sa Setyembre 18-22.

Dahil sa pagkakaroon ng magandang feedback mula sa lahat ng sumali, nagpaplano muli ang Swimming Team na magkaroon ng Zumba Party na gaganapin naman sa huling linggo ng Agosto. / ni Juneau Villanueva

UPIS Swimming Team, nag-uwi ng 44 na medalya

Tinanggap ni Pricila Aquino ang tropeo
bilang Most Outstanding Swimmer mula kay
dating Senador Nikki Coseteng.
(c) Catherine Lorbes
Nagkamit ng 21 gold, 7 silver, at 16 bronze medals ang UPIS Swimming Team sa ginanap na Philippine Swimming League (PSL) noong Hunyo 28-29 sa Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Itinanghal bilang “Most Outstanding Swimmer” para sa kani-kanilang age brackets sina Cha Esmero, Cheska Joves, at Pricila Aquino. Nakakuha si Esmero ng limang gold, dalawang silver, at dalawang bronze medal. Si Joves naman ay may dalawang gold, dalawang silver, at dalawang bronze habang si Aquino ay may pitong gold at isang silver medal.

Nakuha naman ni Drew Magbag ang bagong PSL record para sa 100m breaststroke at 50m breaststroke.

Sumali rin sa kompetisyon sina Juneau Villanueva, Ryan Dimayuga, Ernest Arceo, JB Cuachin, Mary Llorente, Suzy Uy, Carl Condalor, Michael Tee, Glenn Anicoche, John Fajutagana, Joanne de Castro, Mae Rodgers, Owen Bernos, Jasmine Esguerra, Lucille Silvestre, Ria Amano, Angel Dizon, Kennard Bondal, Antonio Aquino, Samnel Gaa, Keio Guzman, Mark Camanian, Kevin Berina, Cynil Tecson at iba pang elementary swimmers.

Napili namang kinatawan ng UPIS sina Esmero, Joves, at Aquino sa gaganaping swimming competition sa Singapore sa darating na Agosto 2 at 3. / ni Juneau Villanueva

Kuha ni Catherine Lorbes

Sports: Aquino, Joves win gold at PSL meet

Pricila Aquino of 9-Sodium and Francheska Joves of 7-Jupiter and other members of the UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) won medals and broke records during the 52nd Philippine Swimming League (PSL) leg last Sunday, January 26.

Aquino won a total of 7 gold medals in the girls 16-year old division for the 400m, 200m, and 50m freestyle, zoom Individual Medley (IM), 100m backstroke, and a PSL record-breaking swim in the 100m breaststroke, with a time of 1.22 minutes.

Her accomplishments also earned her the Most Outstanding Swimmer Award in the girls 16-year old division.

Joves also won gold in the girls 12-year old division for 100m backstroke, and silver for both 200m IM and 50m freestyle events.

The UPIS VST bagged a total of 16 medals, with contributions from Daniel Directo (9-Platinum), Juneau Villanueva (9-Calcium), Drew Magbag (8-Honeybee) and Mae Rodgers (6-Onyx). / by Jean Gutierrez and Luis Perez

Feature: Pricila Aquino: Star Swimmer, Record Breaker

There are three things that help Pricilia Aquino to succeed in her swimming career – inspiration, motivation and dedication.

Pricila, who has broken several records in the Girls Division of University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming competition, says that being an athlete is important to her that’s why she does everything to excel in her sport.

Her family, friends, coaches and teammates are the people who inspire her to do her best. In every competition, Pricila’s dad is always present to support and cheer for her. Sometimes he would tell her, “Pri, bumabagal ka na.” Although this adds pressure, it keeps her motivated because she knows that win or lose, he is always proud of her.

Pricila also feels proud of having a sister who is also a swimmer. “Wala akong excuse na hindi ko kaya gawin ang best ko dahil napagdaanan niya na ang lahat,” said Pricila in an interview.

“Maganda siyang ehemplo kasi kahit na malaki yung agwat niya sa teammates niya, humble pa rin siya," Luis Perez, the UPISVST Team Captain, shared in an interview,

Pricila is currently a 3rd year high school student and when asked about her experience, “ Ang hirap ng Grade 9! Grabe!” But this challenges her to be more responsible. After training, she heads home to do all her requirements. Time management is very important to student-athletes like her so she uses a handy organizer to take note of her schedule and prioritize activities.

Pricila Aquino follows a strict training regimen for continued
success in her swimming career.
She has to juggle tons of schoolwork and regular training and preparation for the upcoming UAAP games. From Monday to Sunday, she trains very hard to defend her title as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the girls. She trains at the Celebrity Sports Club with the help of her coach, Dennis Cordero. Her specialty is I.M. or Individual Medley, long distance.

Aside from inter-school and national competitions, Pricila also receives invitations to compete in international meets in Hongkong, Brunei, and Thailand, among others, every year.

With the current UAAP season underway, Pricila has this to say, “Good luck sa lahat ng teams na magkokompete! Galingan niyo. Don’t forget to pray. And do it for UPIS!" / by Anne Avendaño

UPIS varsity teams compete in Milo Little Olympics

The UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) and Girls’ Volleyball Team competed in the Milo Little Olympics held last September 1–2 in Marikina City.

Three swimmers went home with medals from various events in the competition. Sophomore Pricila Aquino won gold medals in the 800m freestyle and 200m individual medley, and silver medals in the 100m breaststroke, 200m breaststroke, and 400m freestyle events. Senior Joy Rodgers won golds in the 100m and 200m breaststroke, while Jeremiah Esguerra won a bronze medal in the 100m breaststroke.

Meanwhile, the UPIS Girls' Volleyball team lost to Rich Golden Shower Montessori School, 2 sets to none.

Rich Golden Shower was able to catch up on a deuce two in the first set. It took the biggest lead on the 2nd set, scoring 5-13. Great services from Trizia Badong trimmed the lead but their opponents held on to win, 23-25. ● by Miguel Flores and Nina Leis

UPIS VST finishes 2nd in all-star swimming competition

The UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) won 2nd place over-all in the high school division of the All-Star Swimming Competition last August 11 and 12 in the Rizal Sports Complex.

The team won a total of 7 gold medals--4 golds for sophomore Pricila Aquino in the 400m freestyle, 200m individual medley, 400m individual medley and 50m butterfly. She was also named one of the over-all MVPs. Senior Joy Rodgers added 3 more to the loot in her 50m, 100m, and 200m breast stroke events.

Jeremiah Esguerra bagged a silver medal in his 100m breast stroke event while Mary Llorente won 2 bronzes in 50m and 200m breast stroke.

Meanwhile, the UP Varsity Swimming Team was also declared as the over-all champions in the college division of the said competition.

The qualifiers in this competition will be competing against other swimmers in the upcoming Summer Universiade which will be held in Kazan, Russia. ● by Paolo Aljibe, Trizia Badong, and Dara Lilang, with reports from Joy Rodgers, Paul Enriquez, Nina Leis, and Aliyah Rojo

UPIS VST nag-uwi ng mga medalya

Ang Relay Team nina (L-R) Joy Rodgers, Jean Gutierrez,
Nina Leis, at Priscila Aquino na nagkamit ng gold medal
sa 4x50 Freestyle. Jomil Gutierrez
nina Jomil Gutierrez, Anna Angala

Matagumpay na umuwi ang UPIS Varsity Swimming Team mula sa ginanap na UAAP Swimming Competition sa Trace College, Los Banos, Laguna noong Setyembre 22-25.

Nakuha ng UPIS Varsity Swimming Team Girls ang ikatlong pwesto sa pangkabuuan. Itinanghal rin na Rookie of the Year sa UAAP Season '74 si Pricila Aquino ng 7-Mercury na nagkamit ng 2 gold, 1 silver, at 3 bronze.

Sa individuals, nakuha ni Aquino ang gold sa 400m freestyle, silver sa 200m Freestyle, at bronze sa 200m Individual Medley at 800m Freestyle. Si Joy Rodgers ng 9-Silver ay nagkamit naman ng gold sa 50m at 100m Breaststroke.

Sa relays, nakuha ng team nina Aquino, Rodgers, Nina Bea Leis ng 9-Iron, at Jean Marne Gutierrez ng 8-Firefly ang gold sa 4x50 Freestyle.

Ang relay team naman nina Leis, Rodgers, April de Castro ng 10-Acacia, at Red Rivera ng 8-Butterfly ay nagkamit naman ng silver sa 4x50 Medley Relay. Sina Leis, Rodgers, Aquino at Rivera naman ang nakakuha ng bronze sa 4x100 Medley Relay

Nagkamit din ng bronze sa 4x200 Freestyle sina Gutierrez, Rivera, Shaila Fortajada, Celina Medina ng 8- Butterfly.

Para sa Boys team, nakuha naman ni Jeremiah Esguerra ng 9-Iron ang bronze sa 50m Breaststroke. Nagwagi din ng bronze ang relay team nina Esguerra, Nicolo Saren at Paul Enriquez ng 9-Gold, at Patrick Sajol ng 9-Iron sa 4x50 Freestyle at 4x100 Medley Relay.

VST out to make UPIS proud

The UPIS Varsity Swimming Team (VST) will leave tomorrow to compete in the UAAP Season 74 swimming competition to be held at Trace College Los Banos, Laguna on September 22-25.

College and high school swimmers from different schools like Ateneo, UST, La Salle, and UE will participate in the Backstroke, Freestyle, Butterfly, Relay, and Individual Medley events, among others.

Senior April de Castro, team captain of the UPIS VST, said that this is really important to her and the rest of the team.


Everyday, they stay until 9 pm to finish the given work out. They spend a lot of time training so they go all out and make sure to put in hard work and give their best. Coach Bernie, the team's long-time mentor, is always there to support and assist all his swimmers.

The UPIS VST is also all set to break records just like what Joy Rodgers did last year.

On September 24, 2010, Rodgers, then a first-time participant, finished the 50m Breast Stroke event in 35.88 seconds to bag a gold medal and break the previous record of 35.93 established by Filipina olympian Jenny Guerrero in 1999. (Anna Angala, with reports from Prezeuz Dacoco of UPIS Batch 2011)
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