Last Friday, Centro Escolar University marked a memorable day of solidarity and thanksgiving for its student-athletes at the CEU North Quadrangle, Sept. 29.
The event began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the university’s chapel, followed by the Parade of Athletes witnessed by fellow Escolarians.
As part of the opening ceremony, the CEU Pep Squad performed an energizing and jaw-dropping routine which received loud applauses from the audience.
Dr. Carlito Olaer, Vice President for Student Affairs, in his opening remarks, praised the student-athletes and sent his prayers for their health and well-being. Shortly, he introduced this year’s team coaches in their respective sports.
Not long after, Escolarians showed excitement after seeing a less familiar yet exciting face, Javi Gomez de Liaño, who gave an inspirational message to the CEU Scorpions.
In his address, the former University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroon talked about the importance of prioritizing study while being a student-athlete and shared his experiences of being one.
De Liaño recounted his journey from being a benchwarmer in his freshman year to becoming the player that he is at present. Amidst crucial moments, he encouraged student-athletes to keep trying and see things from an optimistic lens.
The current Terrafirma Dyip small forward ended his speech by telling the athletes to “focus on the journey, not the destination,” as he emphasized enjoying the present, saying that college goes by fast.
Afterwards, a fierce and energy-filled intermission number was performed by the CEU Street Squad setting the dance floor ablaze, hyping up the community despite the gloomy weather.
The presentation of advisers, coaches, and players of the CEU Scorpions came after, and was facilitated by the assistant to the vice president for student affairs in athletics, Mrs. Juanita Alamillo.
Meanwhile, Anjord Cabotaje, the team captain of the CEU Scorpions Mens’ Basketball Team, led the Oath of Sportsmanship.
Escolarians cheered for the varsity players as they did their community dance and joined them in playing games, keeping the spirit alight under the gray sky.
The CEU Lady Scorpions seeks to defend their crown in this season of the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA), opened last September 30 at the Chiang Kai Shek College.
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