The UST Lady Judokas claimed eight medals in the seniors division of the Philippine Ultimate Judo Championship International Open held at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 4.
Arielle Alcoran clinched gold in the -48kg division, while Lea Quimba and Iahna Jaboneta both secured silver finishes in the -78kg and +78kg categories, respectively.
Kryschelin Oledan (-44kg), Amber Arcilla (-52kg), Angel Cortez (-57kg), Mariel Membrillos (-62kg), and Sophie Madamba (+78kg) also won bronze medals in their respective divisions.
UST head coach Gerard Arce said the tournament served as a litmus test for his players as they continue to assess their strengths.
“Magandang confidence booster ‘to sa mga bata,” he told the Varsitarian. At least, nalaman nila sa sarili nila kung ano pa ang kulang, ang pagkakamali nila, at ‘yong mga magandang nagawa nila.
“Nakukuha nila ‘yong mga dapat nilang matutunan: ‘yong diskarte, techniques, pati strength at speed.”
The tournament, organized by the Ultimate Judo Fighters Club, included four divisions: kids, cadets, seniors, and masters.
It also featured teams from other UAAP schools, along with judokas from across Asia and European nations.
Still, Arce noted that there are areas the team must continue to build on and improve.
“Kulang pa rin sa diskarte ‘yong iba, ‘yon naman ang No. 1 thing sa laro namin. Siyempre kailangan ‘yong mga fundamental pa rin, mga techniques at kung paano nila gagamitin sa laro.”
He also hopes the team will carry the same goal and determination into the upcoming UAAP season.
“Ngayon iba ang determination ng mga bata. ‘Yong goal namin ngayon intact, as one kami at gusto namin yon madala sa UAAP.”
