UAAP 77 officially kicked off last July 12, featuring an astronomy-inspired opening ceremony led by University of the East (UE), this season’s host at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
With the theme “Unity in Excellence,” eight planet-like spheres were shown hanging above the rafters representing each member university as one united universe.
In her opening speech, UE President Esther Albano Garcia encouraged participating schools to remain united despite the high level of competition. She said victory was best celebrated together.
Fr. Ermito De Sagon, O.P., director of the UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics, agreed saying unity did not necessarily mean that the quality of games should diminish.
De Sagon was confident that UST would have a strong lineup across all sporting events as it attempts to regain the UAAP general championship, which was won by De La Salle University last year.
He added that fielding the best players was also the school’s way of living by the UAAP’s theme.
“We always try to field our best players but unfortunately it is not as easy with other schools also having their own programs,” he told the Varsitarian. “We will just do our best.”
De Sagon added that as long as Thomasian athletes continue to give their best in their respective events, there is nothing to be ashamed of.
"You win some games and you lose some," he said. "We will win graciously and we will lose with humility." Karl Cedrick G. Basco
