TSU Men’s Football team claims victory at the SCUAA Olympics

Report by Anthonette Aspiras | Photo Credits to Assoc. Prof. Jazzel Llaneli M. Manabat

Three students from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) played in Tarlac State University (TSU) men’s football team’s historic triumph at the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) III Olympics.

After three decades of relentless pursuit, the TSU Firefoxes secured the gold medal by defeating the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA) Soaring Eagles, 5-4, in the championship round at Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU).

The Firefoxes reached this milestone after they maintained their momentum and remained undefeated until the very last game. They made a strong start after winning against their first opponent, Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), 1-0. Which was then followed by their victory against Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Bataan, 6-0.

They successfully secured a spot in the semi-finals round after they outdid this year’s host university, PSAU, 3-1. Then, not long after, they made it to the finals after defeating BSPU stallions, 1-0.

In an interview, their coach, Assoc. Prof. Jazzel Llaneli Manabat emphasized the preparations they made to make this long-awaited victory possible.

“Our edge among all the other teams is our heart and will to win. We have been preparing for this since 2022. Ito ‘yung noong nag resume ang in-person SCUAA III games. Hindi lang skills ang naging focus namin, pati rin ‘yung mind and emotional conditioning ginawa namin ng coaching staff para sa team. ‘Yung mga tournaments na sinalihan namin, conditioning noong January, pati ‘yung scrimmages namin noong rigid training, nagbunga lahat,” Assoc. Prof. Manabat said.

Also, Assoc. Prof. Manabat expressed her hope for more opportunities for the team when she was asked about their team’s next move.

“We will start preparing for the National SCUAA this April 2025. Hopefully, the university will allow us to join more tournaments outside the province para mas may exposure ang mga players at mas tumaas pa ang level ng laro nila,” she answered.

Meanwhile, three students from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) under the Department of Communication were also part of the team. Fourth-year student John Benjo Bautista (Striker) and third-year students Bryant Santiago (Striker) and Lhenard Basilio (Asst. trainer coach) gave their best effort and contributed to their team’s sweet victory.

In an interview, Bautista expressed his overwhelming joy and gratitude for this victory.

“Ang pagkapanalo namin dito is inilaro namin nang buong puso at inalay namin una sa Lord. Pangalawa, is sa TSU, at ang panghuli ay para sa mga coaches and alumni namin, dahil 3 years namin itong hinintay and all glory to Him! We made it!” He expressed.

Moreover, aside from Assoc. Prof. Manabat, Mr. Gell Villanueva is also one of the coaches that supports and guides the team.

This victory not only marks a historic moment for TSU but also highlights the diverse talents within the CASS community. With their determination and passion, Bautista, Santiago, and Basilio have proven that excellence in sports can go hand in hand with academic pursuits.

The TSU Men’s Football team will represent Region III in the upcoming National State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA), which will be held at Camiguin Island.