MMBL season in halfway point, San Beda, Chiang Kai Shek lead the way

Familiar names dominate the different divisions of the 30th season of the SeaOil Metro Manila Basketball League (MMBL), led by perennial high school powerhouse San Beda.

The NCAA juniors champions under Britt Reroma own a 6-0 record in Division I-A, while the UAAP juniors champions Far Eastern University is in second place with a 5-2 record, a game ahead of Chiang Kai Shek.

Division I-B is the only division in the MMBL where its teams tote a blemish on their record, with Hope Christian High School and National University share the lead with a 4-1 record. A half-game back is Xavier with a 3-1 record.

Hope Christian High School ended the year toting two trophies that will certainly boost their confidence for the 2nd half of the MMBL season, recently bagging the juniors' division of the Fr. Martin's tournament, as well as winning the first-ever Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship (PSSBC) last month against the San Sebastian College-Recoletos in The Arena in San Juan.

Meanwhile, the B-squads of San Beda, NU and the University of Santo Tomas lord over Division II. The Red Cubs own a 7-0 record, which leads Division II-A, with the Bullpups a game back with a 6-1 record.  The Tiger Cubs lead Division II-B with a 6-0 record, followed by Xavier's B-team with a 3-1 record.

It had been announced late last year that the MMBL's champions for Division II will join the top three teams of Division I as NCR's representatives for the NBTC National High School Championships, or more familiarly known as the Elite League.
     
Completing the cast of division leaders are College of San Benildo-Rizal (Division III-A), San Beda College-Alabang (Division III-B), National University's Team C (IV-A) and Xavier's Team B (IV-B).

In the inagural girls division, Chiang Kai Shek owns a 7-0 record, with La Salle-Zobel in second with a 5-1 win-loss slate.

The MMBL matches will resume this month at these venues:  San Beda College, International School-Manila, St. Stephen's High School and the PhilSports Arena.

The standings as of January 3, 2013:

Division 1-A

San Beda College-A                                    6-0
Far Eastern University-FERN A                   5-2
Chiang Kai Shek College-A                         4-3
Colegio San Juan de Letran                          3-2
De La Salle Zobel-A                                    3-2
Our Lady of Fatima University                      1-3
University of Santo Tomas A                        1-3-1
Adamson University                                     0-7

Division 1-B

Hope Christian High School                                   4-1
National University                                                4-1
Xavier-A                                                               3-1
Ateneo High School                                               2-2
San Sebastian College Recoletos                           2-3
Malayan Institute of Technology                             1-4
University of the Philippines Integrated School       0-4

Division II-A

San Beda College-B                       7-0
National University-B                      6-1
Faith Academy-A                           3-2
De La Salle Zobel-B                       3-4
Far Eastern University-FERN B      2-4
Arellano University                         1-2-1
Chiang Kai Shek College-B            1-4
Uno High School                             0-5

Division II-B

University of Santo Tomas-B                  6-0
Xavier-B                                                3-1
San Sebastian College Recoletos-B        3-2
Emilio Aguinaldo College                        2-2
St. Stephen’s High School-A                  2-3-1
International School Manila-A                 2-3
Kings Montessori School                        0-6

Division III-A

College of San Benildo-Rizal            7-0
San Beda College-C                        5-1
Escuela de Sofia of Caloocan           4-1
Rich                                                 4-2
St. Jude Catholic School                  2-4-1
Trinity University of Asia                   1-4
Southridge School-A                        1-5
Gymnazo Christian School                0-6

Division III-B

San Beda College Alabang-A          7-0
Colegio de San Agustin-Biñan         4-1
Reedley International School           4-2
Lourdes School of Mandaluyong     3-2
St. Andrew’s School                       3-3
International School Manila-B         2-4
Southridge School-B                      0-3-2
Australian International School        0-6

Division IV-A

National University-C                     7-0
ESPS                                             5-1
Chiang Kai Shek College-S            4-2
SNCA-B                                       4-2
La Consolacion College-Manila      3-4
Southridge School-C                      2-5
Dominican College Sta. Rosa          1-4-1
St. Stephen’s High School-B           0-7

Division IV-B

Xavier School                                 6-0
La Salle College-Antipolo               5-1
San Beda College-D                       5-1
St. James Academy                        4-2
The Seed Montessori School          2-4
Faith Academy B                            2-5
Our Lady’s Angels School              0-6
Quezon City Science High School   0-5

Girls

Chiang Kai Shek College-               7-0
De La Salle Zobel                           5-1
La Salle College-Antipolo               4-2
Uno High School                            3-3
Faith Academy                               2-4
Casimiro Ynares Memorial School  1-3
St. Jude Catholic School                 1-6
Hope Christian High School            0-4

PFF-SMART Club Nationals Round of 16 set next week

On the same day as the press conference for the home leg of the Philippines against Singapore in the AFF Suzuki Cup, the offices of the Philippine Football Federation in Pasig City was the venue for the draw of the PFF-SMART National Club Championship's Round of 16.

Witnessing the drawing of lots were representatives from some of participating teams, as well as SMART Sports executive Epok Quimpo. Cyril Dofitas from the PFF and Richie Gannaban handled the actual draw proper.

The 16 teams who made it this far came from eight different clusters as designated by the PFF (two from Luzon, four from Mindanao and one each for the Visayas and the National Capital Region), each of whom had their own qualification process.

The recently concluded UFL Cup formed the basis of qualification for the NCR Cluster, where the UFL teams that made the quarterfinals secured their berths to the competition, led by recently crowned UFL  Penson Stallion Gilligan's FC and this competition's defending champions and losing UFL Cup finalists Global FC (then competing under the name Teknika). In addition, the two best third place teams from the Group Stage, in Pasargad and Nomads, also secured their spots in the Round of 16, thus bringing the number of UFL sides to eleven.

The eleventh UFL side in the competition is Cebu Queen City United FC, who opted to not participate in the UFL Cup and went through the Visayan leg of the PFF-SMART Nationals instead. The UFL Division II side finished second to Ceres FC. Completing the provincial sides are Flame United FC and Baguio United FC for Luzon, while Romgarjal FC and M'lang FC will represent Mindanao.

Round of 16 rules have mandated that any UFL side drawing a provincial team will be mandated to travel to the base of the provincial team, except for Flame United. The Cavite-based side will play their match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. The two match-ups involving the NCR cluster by itself will also have their matches at the said venue.

The draw yielded the following matchups:

Negros-based Ceres FC drew Stallion in what arguably could be the most interesting fixture in the Round of 16. The winner would face the winner of the Nomads-Global FC matchup, thus setting up a possible UFL Cup final rematch in the PFF-SMART quarterfinals.

Cebu Queen City United drew Pachanga-Diliman FC for their matchup, a revival of their UFL Division 2 rivalry, with Pachanga earning the promotion into Division 1, now infused by players who played for Diliman that finished second ahead of CQCUFC. The winner of that matchup will face the winner between UFL Cup semifinalists Green Archers United and Romgarjal FC.

The other purely NCR matchup will feature Pasargad and Army, whose winner will face the winner of the matchup between the lone northern Luzon representative Baguio United FC and impressive newcomer General Trias International FC.

The last pairings involve Flame United FC against Singapore Cup semifinalists Loyola Meralco Sparks and M'lang FC against Kaya FC. That M'lang-Kaya matchup will kick off the Round of 16 action as they play on January 9, 3pm at the South Cotabato Sports Complex in Koronodal. The rest of the matches will be played on January 12 or 13, as seen below.

January 12 matches:

General Trias International FC @ Baguio United FC: 3pm kickoff at the Benguet State University in La Trinidad.

Green Archers United FC @ Romgarjal FC: 3pm kickoff at the Jose Rizal Memorial State University in Dapitan.

Pachanga-Diliman FC @ Cebu Queen City United FC: 3pm kickoff at the Aboitiz Field in Cebu

Loyola Meralco Sparks FC @ Flame United FC: 4pm kickoff at Rizal Memorial Stadium

January 13 matches:

Penson Stallion Gilligan's FC @ Ceres FC: 3pm kickoff at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod

Pasargad FC vs Philippine Army FC: 4pm kickoff at Rizal Memorial Stadium

Nomads FC vs Global FC: 630pm kickoff at Rizal Memorial Stadium

The bracketing looks like this:

The lineups for the teams in this competition will be set by January 7.

The AFC Challenge Cup Qualifers Bracketing

Coming Soon in March 2013.

2012 AFF Suzuki Cup - Philippines vs Singapore (Leg 1)

c/o Suzuki Cup website

A Goalless Draw. That is what it was in our home leg...

UAAP Season 75 Women's Football Rosters

Note: name in italics means she is a rookie.

Ateneo de Manila University

Alessandra Francesca Abraham
Inez Camille M P. Achacoso
Marie Angelie I. Cadayona
Mia Angela B. Catedrilla
Ma Leah Patricia N. Cruz
Alexa Monica P. Dabao
Camille M M. Dayrit
Cecilia M D. Dayrit
Fiona Natasha Jean Faulkner
Kimberlee A. Jimenez
Maria Ines G. Lorenzo
Anne Therese Marie B. Martin
Jasmine Jillian L. Matalam
Kathleen Camille M. Rodriguez
Mikaela Louise B. Romero
Ramona Julia D. Sucgang
Angelica Fae G. Tiu
Princess Marie C. Trinidad

De La Salle University

Catalina Maria Ramona Abaya
Marie Celine F. Ampil
Megan D. Diaz
Chermaine Lou D. Guancia
Samantha Louise N. Hain
Maria Monica M. Henson
Ma. Ellyca Denise L. Lacson
Meryll Mae O. Ledesma
Carmela Marie B. Lizares
Noreen Kim A. Maligad
Regine Metillo
Maria Isabel L. Montelibano
Toni Zoemima M. Nolasco
Karla Jenine P. Pacificador
Inna Kristianne B. Palacios
Dominiuque Marie F. Scott
Erika Lorraine T. Turtur
Ma. Cristina Rosanne M. Viray
Adrianne Aniana B. Yniguez
Ma. Isabel E. Zulaybar

Far Eastern University

Analou A. Amita
Jenelyn A. Amita
Sarah Jane M. Banagodos
Jezza P. Baron
Mea D. Bernal
Alesa N. Dolino
Charmaine Joy M. Fagaragan
Coleen Faye C. Grande
Jean Brigette Dc. Kadil
Loreta C. Ladero
Dawn Antoniette L. Nengasca
Sheramae B. Ramos
Mara Kristia D. Sabanal
Sharmine B. Siatong
Barbie Ann S. Sobredo
Emarie P. Solano
Jessa Marie S. Sumagpao
Alexandra Monica A. Trebol
Beberly B. Valencia

University of the Philippines

Paulina Marie T. Abadilla
Aira Audrey Alexis G. Agustin
Christille Mae D. Ardiente
Stephanie Nicole Q. Bantoc
Geia Andrea B. Barrido
Anna Maria Concepcion Cabrera
Jermaine Lois C. Choa Peck
Martha Ruth T. Dagdag
Kaira Nicole M. Dimatulac
Muriel Felicity Gloria Gonzales
Patricia C. Malonzo
Monica Louise Y. Manalansan
Marsha C. Nackaerts
Natalie B. Nisce
Katherine Louise B. Orsolino
Clara Victoria H. Poblador
Maria Beatriz N. Quintos
Hannah Katrina Corazon Servida
Daniella Cristina Ugarte
Christina Marie C. Vergara

University of Santo Tomas

Jena Ralyn L. Abuan
Pearl Anjanette P. Aguilar
Hi'maya C. Argel
Anishan Grace F. Buison
Jennizel B. Cabalan
Nikki A. Castroverde
Joma J. Clemente
Jan Christelle A. Cleofe
Cara Jamile J. Corpus
Aira M. Ilan
Trixia Grace C. Jalbuena
Diane L. Jazul
Marice N. Magdolot
Marie N. Magdolot
Mira Mae B. Nonato
Nikki S. Regalado
Isabela Francesca N. Rivilla
Chanda I. Solite
Marielle D. Sutacio
Cheska Jane M. Toledo

UAAP Season 75 Men's Football Rosters

Note: Name denoted in italics means rookie

Ateneo de Manila University

John Christopher T. Aw Young
Antonio Lorenzo R. Bonoan
Valentino B. Calvo
Thomas Julio P. Cruel
Leandro Martin T. Fabregas
Eric Lorenzo A. Figueroa
Philip Armand G. Gozali
Leo Carlo R. Liay
Jacob Jose G. Lorenzo
Michael Jeremy Mabanag
Wilson Keith B. Marcelino
Luis Emmanuel S. Mendoza
Yu S. Murayama
Christian Jerico Allan B. Noel
Nicholas Michael R. O'Donnell
Emmanuel D. Paredes
Emilio Felipe C. Pelaez
Jose Antonio G. Sison
Christopher J. Sumulong
Miguel V. Tuazon

De La Salle University

Nathanael Andrew G. Alquiros
Carl John D. Amisola
Hector Ian Jorge B. Borromeo
Antonio Luis R. Celdran
Joshua Noel A. Cruz
Patrick Phillip B. Deyto
David Angelo R. Diamante
Derrico Gabriel R. Diamante
Inigo Rafael A. Gonzales
Sung Won Hong - foreigner
Gerald Mark P. Layumas
Andres Philip Mayol
Jose Luis Ricardo Montelibano
Matthew Erwin Thomas Nierras
Joshua Raphael A. Poe
Federicco D. Rabaya
Larson Peter C. Smit
Charleston Franklin C. Uy
Gregory Norman M. Yang
Jhoguev P. Ybanez

Far Eastern University

Amani Manuel S. Aguinaldo
Arnel A. Amita
Paolo A. Bugas
Justin Marc S. Calamba
Jestoni P. Celeste
Noli John N. Chavez
Dexter Jae R. Chio
Van Rey C. Diaz
Nicolas B. Ferrer, jr.
Nino D. Fuentes
Eric Ben G. Giganto
Angelou Val S. Jurao
Jason S. Lofranco
Lester Dr. Madia
Jesus Joaquin G. Melliza
Michael B. Menzi
Nicanor B. Menzi, jr.
Patrick Bonn F. Rallos
Alex R. Rayos, jr.
Chy P. Villasenor

National University

Michael Vincent P. Angeles
Elgen R. Antipolo
Anthony P. Antipolo
Darryl Ivan B. Arriesgado
Marlon S. Cabrera
Arnel A. Casil
Chac Renus U. Cuaresma
Charles Jade Denver F. Dumlao
Bryan T. Garciano
Juniel R. Jalandoni
Joey I. Lacson
Jerome L. Manoop
Mark Jojo T. Marcaida
Frederick B. Nueva
Pritchill Evans I. Pascual
Hayeson H. Pepito
David T. Reyes
Mark Anthony A. Sampaga

University of the East

Edgardo M. Aguirre, Jr.
Fitch Johnson Daviz Arboleda
Temoteo B. Balloban, jr.
Mariano C. Caballero
Lendon L. Clores
Reginald Kim C. Gomez
Jeffrey Allen P. Lacsamana
John Caesar A. Llaguno
John Richard D. Mayor
Kim Dustin M. Medina
Nik Darrow R. Molo
Norman F. Obrence
Janus Melchor R. Ragodon
Kevin Rey D. Rioveros
Jade M. Riva
Michael G. Tulio
John Paolo C. Villamor
Mark Russel B. Villanueva

University of the Philippines

Vincent Karl P. Aguilar
Alfonso Ignacio S. Ancheta
Fe B. Baya
Mark Anthony B. Besana
Tyrone T. Caballes
Raphael Russel C. Castro
James Paul A. Condat
Nathaniel T. De Guzman
Joseph Ryan G. Fermin
Raymark Kenneth B. Fernandez
Daniel Bernan R. Gadia
Gabriel Perfecto G. Mendoza
Evanjames O. Mendoza
Carlos Alberto Gerardo Monfort
Nino F. Muros
Jacob P. Ochoa
Deo M. Seguinal
Michael Nehemiah T. Simms
Gerardo W. Valmayor
Nathanael Ace P. Villanueva
Albert Eli L. Yatco

University of Santo Tomas

Carmelus Francis R. Aseneta
Marvin Lloyd D. Barquin
Ronald B. Batisla-ong
Joel Z. Bones
John Elton T. De Arce
Uche D. Ememandu - foreigner
Shinmar G. Felongco
Yang Seon Kim - foreigner
Ronnel B. Lagrimas
Albert P. Llevares
Mateo K. Miranda
Noel Newton R. Nathaniel
Emmanuel M. Obiegbu, jr.
Patrick Nesbitt Dl. Oneill
Norwyn Roi M. Ortanez
Ricky Ryan R. Ragay
Divino M. Regis
Peter Hendrik B. Ricamora
Jejomar R. Valdez

A Different Call To Arms, ver. 2.0

The Philippines has a scheduled home game against Singapore on December 8.

Craig Burrows, yes, the guy from the previous post, is calling on the fans attending the game to have a creative mind and make the atmosphere at Rizal Memorial to have a "football fiesta" to it.

I wonder what the football fan would have in mind with how we can make watching football #ItIsMoreFunInThePhilippines.

Do take note that whatever you are doing has to be within FIFA guidelines.

2012 AFF Suzuki Cup - Philippines vs Myanmar

Photo from the Suzuki Cup website

The Philippines secured their long-overdue home game with a 2-0 victory over Myanmar.

A Different Kind of a Call to Arms

That is Y! Ph's Passionate fan Bob Guerrero on the left and Craig Burrows on the right. Photo from Bob Guerrero.

A English comrade named Craig Burrows (@craigburrows) wrote this little prose piece in preparation for the upcoming AFF Suzuki Cup Group Stage match against Myanmar to be played tonight. I thought it would be nice to share it with everyone, because it is one filled with passion, because he truly has it for the sport.

Bonifacio Day, do you know his nickname within the KKK?

It was May pag-asa ("There is Hope") and today we as a nation celebrate because he helped deliver that hope and independence was gained.

He was not alone, he worked with a team and today another team does battle for the nation, it is not for independence but it is for national pride and that is something that I am sure Bonifacio understood and I have no doubt that he would be thrilled not just that his name was celebrated on November 30th but that an independent Philippines was free not to fight on the battlefield but on a sporting one as the nation has gained the objective he lived and died for.

I in no way want to imply that the Azkals are on the same level as Bonifacio, I just want to suggest that he would support them and all national teams of a free Pilipinas and encourage us to unite behind them.

Today as you wake remember Bonifacio - May pag-asa - and ask yourself how he would feel seeing his free countrymen fighting for national pride.

Let us celebrate Bonifacio a true hero but let us also unite to celebrate our freedom that we have because he and many others gave their lives that today we may be free.

Happy Bonifacio day let us celebrate him and our independence by uniting and standing for national pride. God bless.

On Andres' 149th birthday (and also happens to be Global FC defender and Philippine international Carlie de Murga's 24th natal day as well), may we as a nation provide him with something he'd approve, that is to express and show our pride as a Filipino nation in what we do on the field and in the stands (whether at Supachalasai Stadium or at a sports bar or even at home).

Oh and as Tony Kornheiser would say: "Do Wear White." The Philippines will be wearing that color later, and so should we.

The Conflict of Spike

Brooklyn native and Manhattan New York Knicks super fan Spike Lee with this interesting discussion about the dynamic of his psyche.


Love the color interplay, too. The NBA is awesome in doing promo, this way.

The evolution of the LeBron Narrative, by PTI

Grantland's new piece is great, because this was cobbled from the archives. Great job.


Wonder what is next for him?

2012 AFF Suzuki Cup - Philippines vs Vietnam

Photo c/o Anton Sheker from the Azkalsfootballteam.com website via ABS-CBN News

A 1-0 victory for the Azkals, thanks to the magic of Emelio Caligdong

2012 AFF Suzuki Cup - Philippines vs Thailand

Photo c/o AFF Suzuki Cup website

The Philippines opened their 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup campaign on a disappointing note with a 2-1 defeat to Thailand.

The Hall of Fame Ballot

The Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot has been revealed. Who do you think should make the Hall of Fame?

Just take note of one rule. You have a maximum of ten guys you can vote for on this list. The 600+ eligible voters have until December 31 to submit their ballot.

Those who make the 75% cutoff, if there are any, will be revealed on January 9.

Voting shall be based upon the player's record, playing ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contributions to the team(s) on which the player played.

The list of 37 names appear after the jump.

The Trequartista Sweeper - AFF Suzuki Cup Scenarios

It has been an interesting AFF Suzuki Cup so far, with virtually interesting and fascinating matches that have resulted in exciting results with one matchday remaining, November 30 in Thailand and December 1 in Malaysia.

Here's a look at what each of the eight nations can do if they have dreams of hosting a home game one week later...

Matchday 3 will take on November 30, with a 9:20 PM (in Manila) kickoff for both matches:

Thailand vs Vietnam at Rajamangala Stadium
The Philippines vs Myanmar at Supachalasai Stadium

Myanmar has the toughest road to climb in this group. They need to win against the Philippines AND (preferably) Thailand beats Vietnam, because if Vietnam wins against the Thais, the 2013 SEA Games hosts will need to beat the Azkals by at least four goals AND whatever the margin of victory the 2008 AFF Suzuki Cup champions had secured against the hosts.

Vietnam has a similar road with Myanmar, in that they need to win their match against their opponent to have any chance of advancing, but that still depends on the result of the Philippines-Myanmar match. If Myanmar wins, the 2013 SEA Games hosts will need to win by four goals or less PLUS whatever Vietnam's winning margin over Thailand is. If the Azkals manage a draw, Vietnam needs to win by at least two goals over the hosts.

The Philippines can secure a place in the semifinals with a win against Myanmar. They can also secure it with a draw AND Thailand preventing a Vietnamese win. A defeat will eliminate the Philippines from semifinal aspirations. The Azkals have an outside shot at going on top of Group A with a win AND Thailand losing to Vietnam, provided that the combination of a Filipino victory AND a Thai defeat exceeds five.


Thailand has already secured its seat in the semifinals. A draw against Vietnam will be enough to secure the top spot in Group A. In the off chance that they lose, they will still maintain first place if The Philippines fails to win against Myanmar or the Azkals win by less than this equation: [five then subtract the margin of their defeat to Vietnam].

Matchday 3 will take place on December 1, with a 8:45 PM (in Manila) kickoff for both matches:

Malaysia vs Indonesia at Bukit Jalil Stadium
Singapore vs Laos at Shah Alam Stadium

Laos needs to beat Singapore if they have any shot at advancing as a runner-up. It would be better if Indonesia beats Malaysia, as no additional tiebreakers will be necessary, but a win by the defending AFF Suzuki Cup champions will mean that they need to beat Singapore with the margin from this equation: [four then subtract the margin of Malaysia's win over Indonesia].

Malaysia can win the group if they beat Indonesia AND Singapore is unable to win over Laos. If Singapore wins over Laos, they will need to have a winning margin of better than two compared to their Causeway rivals. A draw with Indonesia means the defending Suzuki Cup champions will need to have Laos beat Singapore by a winning margin no larger than 3. Malaysia can afford to lose to Indonesia as well, provided Singapore loses to Laos by a margin at least larger than two.

Singapore can win the group with a victory over Laos AND Indonesia unable to win over Malaysia. If Malaysia beats Indonesia, Singapore can still win the group if their Causeway rivals win by a smaller margin than that of the Lions. They can also advance with a draw if Malaysia does not win over Indonesia. A loss eliminates them from semifinal contention.

Indonesia can win the group with a victory over Malaysia. They can also win the group with a draw, provided Singapore does not win its match against Laos. In fact, the Merah Putih only need a draw to advance to the next round. If they lose to Malaysia, they will need Laos to beat Singapore, but the number needs to be less than this equation: [four then subtract the margin of Malaysia's win over Indonesia].

Fr. Jett Villarin's Memo

The drama is now over, (I think). 

Over the past few days, Mr Manuel V Pangilinan (MVP) and I have been meeting in an effort to move forward and create a more open and constructive partnership. Our dialogue touched upon various matters (both immediate and long-term) that involve the Ateneo de Manila.

On the specific issue of the Head Coach of our Men’s Varsity Basketball Team, MVP offered to arrange for me to meet with Coach Bo Perasol, so that we could reconsider our mutual termination of an earlier agreement. In view of this development, I reconvened the Search Committee, which had earlier recommended Coach Bo as their candidate for the said post. The Committee met last Friday, 24 November, and confirmed their recommendation in respect of Coach Bo. With the affirmation and support of the Search Committee, I am pleased to announce that Coach Bo shall be the Head Coach of the Ateneo Blue Eagles beginning 1 December 2012. We are grateful to MVP for his gesture of goodwill.

At the same time, I would like to encourage the Ateneo community to continue supporting what will now be a Sports Endowment Fund (SEF). I have decided to expand the scope and mission of this Fund to include all athletic programs beyond basketball, as we believe in the wisdom of the SEF being the umbrella capital fund which will sustain our athletes and sports programs for the long term. Thus, contributions to basketball and all other athletic programs shall henceforth be channeled through the SEF. The Ateneo de Manila will supervise this Fund with the appropriate governance and management systems to ensure the smooth running of all our athletic programs. Under Fr Nemesio Que SJ, the team tasked with oversight of the SEF has begun their work.

I am hopeful that everyone in the Ateneo community will give their wholehearted support to this enlarged SEF. In fact, I am heartened by the response we have received thus far in the form of pledges and donations, and I know I can count on all of you to remain committed to building this Fund, and supporting our beloved alma mater. MVP and the MVP Sports Foundation have agreed to infuse this Fund with a significant donation.

We undertake all these efforts to strengthen the formative and Ignatian values that are drawn from our engagement in athletics in the Ateneo family. In this and in many other endeavors, we are also given a glimpse of our mission and identity.

Mens sana in corpore sano.

Jose Ramon T Villarin SJ
President

And with that, the quest from ANIMo Ateneo is now in full swing.

The final 22 for the Philippines revealed for the AFF Suzuki Cup

The Philippine Football Federation released on Friday afternoon the list of players competing in the AFF Suzuki Cup.

From the initially-released 35 around a month ago, it was whittled down to 26-27 names earlier this week before eventually settling on the final 22, which will be the basis for the upcoming Group Stage matches and any fixtures subsequent to it if the Azkals manage to go beyond it.

Eight members from the 2010 Suzuki Cup team make their return to the 2012 lineup, including the brother tandem of James and Phil Younghusband.

Those guys will join forces with the core of the team the recently copped the Philippine Football Peace Cup (formerly known as the Long Teng Cup), the first tournament the nation has won in 99 years. That team had the likes of Denis Wolf and Patrick Reichelt providing the scoring.

The AFF Suzuki Cup will commence with action in the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, with Vietnam facing Myanmar at 630pm in Manila followed the Philippines going up against hosts Thailand at 920pm. AkTV and Star Sports handle the televised coverage.

Forwards

Angel Guirado - Salgaocar FC (I-League - India)
Denis Wolf - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Phil Younghusband - Loyola Meralco Sparks FC (United Football League - Philippines) 

Midfielders

Marwin Angeles - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Jason De Jong - Stallion Penson FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Chris Greatwich - Morris County Colonials (National Premier Soccer League - United States)
Jerry Lucena - Esbjerg FC (Superliga - Denmark)
Paul Mulders - ADO Den Haag (Eredivisie - The Netherlands) 

Wingers

Emelio Caligdong - Philippine Air Force (United Football League - Philippines)
Jeff Christiaens - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Demit Omphroy - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Patrick Reichelt - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
James Younghusband - Loyola Meralco Sparks FC (United Football League - Philippines) 

Defenders

Dennis Cagara - Karlsruher SC (3. Bundesliga - Germany)
Rob Gier - Ascot United FC (Hellenic League - England)
Juan Luis Guirado - Racing Lermeno (Tercera Division - Spain) *also listed on Global FC's roster
Ray Jonsson - Grindavik (Úrvalsdeild - Iceland) *contract with the team expires at end of October
Carlie de Murga - Global FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Jason Sabio - Kaya FC (United Football League - Philippines) 

Goalkeepers

Ref Cuaresma - Loyola Meralco Sparks FC (United Football League - Philippines)
Roland Muller - MSV Duisburg (2. Bundesliga - Germany)
Ed Sacapano - Philippine Army (United Football League - Philippines)

The Trequartista Sweeper - Envisioning how we play

The roster for the AFF Suzuki Cup will be revealed later this afternoon.

When the 35-man pool was released, I was intrigued with the possibilities as to who should be in the roster. I thought carefully about how Hans Michael Weiss used his roster in his previous competitions, the availability and form of those individuals, and came out with my own projected lineup for the Suzuki Cup.

That pool has since shrunk since Marvin Angeles, Matthew Uy, Mark Hartmann, OJ Porteria and Lexton Moy were left behind and Neil Etheridge, Roland Muller, Stephan Schrock and Manny Ott pretty much ruled themselves out due to their unavailability.

With that, this is my own constituted 22-man lineup.

GKs: Sacapano, Cuaresma (2)
DFs: de Murga, J. Guirado, Cagara, Gier, Jonsson (5)
MFs: Mulders, Lucena, de Jong, Gonzales, Greatwich, Mw. Angeles (6)
Wingers: Omphroy, Caligdong, Reichelt, Christiaens, JYH (5)
FWs: PYH, Wolf, A. Guirado, Araneta (4)

This would be my preferred starting XI

You're probably wondering why I have this formation.

1. The best way to make Ed Sacapano's life easy is to have a rock-solid back line to neutralize the opposition. Having veterans like Gier and Jonsson with added upgrades in Juani, Dennis and Jerry will surely help in neutralizing the likes of Le Cong Vinh and Teerasil. If we need offense from the back line, we can then insert the Global FC wingers Omphroy and Christiaens to provide some spark.

2. Guirado and PYH are interchangeable. We already saw the potential of Phil as feeder in their friendly against Singapore.

The Trequartista Sweeper - Deconstructing the 35-man RP AFF Suzuki Cup Pool

Photo courtesy of the PFF.

As per the AFF guidelines, the PFF released the provisional pool of 35 players a month before the start of the Suzuki Cup, as reported here. What I will do now is expound on the selections and see where we will go from here to Friday, when we will whittle that number down to 22, 20 of which are eligible to play. This is after all the friendlies have been played from June all the way to the just-concluded one in Cebu.

Goalkeepers: Ref Cuaresma, Neil Etheridge, Roland Muller, Ed Sacapano

This is arguably a position of strength for the Philippines, with solid options all around. Availability is the biggest issue, with status of Neil and Roland still up in the air, although it looks slim for the latter with reports that their regular keeper being out until Christmas. However, both Ed and Ref have stepped up nicely in the action that they have seen, whether for club and country. Neil and Ed also were present in 2010, so they are familiar with the conditions.

Defenders: Dennis Cagara, Rob Gier, Juan Luis Guirado, Ray Jonsson, Carlie de Murga, Jason Sabio

Dennis has received his clearance from Karlsruher SC to play in this competition, considering he has not figured with the lineup that is currently on a roll in the 3. Bundesliga. Injuries are the proverbial woe in this group, from Rob's hamstrings to Juani's knee to Jason's groin and now, Carlie's meniscus, which caused him to miss the friendly against Singapore. This is already to add to the knee issues that has bothered and kept reigning skipper Aly Borromeo on the sidelines. That is why it is encouraging that Rob and Juani were able to play the entire match against Singapore. A very solid unit, which will be put to the test against the best Southeast Asia can offer.

Midfielders: Marvin Angeles, Marwin Angeles, Jason De Jong, Anto Gonzales, Chris Greatwich, Jerry Lucena, Nestorio Margarse, Jr., Lexton Moy, Paul Mulders, Manny Ott, Matthew Uy

There are two sets of midfielders in this group. One set is composed of the defensive-oriented guys (Jason, Anto, Jerry, Nestorio, Lexton and Matthew) while the rest are the creators / facilitators. For the first group,  Jerry reportedly was only given clearance as of the moment for only one match, the group stage fixture against Vietnam, while no details have been made available as for Manny. Most of the defensive guys are pretty similar, especially when you look into their respective roles with their clubs. It's a matter of taste or fit with regards to the selection. It can be said that Jason is probably playing the best out of those similar guys. As for offense, the twins have handled the midfield role well, with Marwin being a little bit better than Marvin. Chris is best known for his 2010 heroics, while Paul best helps with the attack and with feeding the people up front, especially with his capabilities.

Wingers: Misagh Bahadoran, Emelio Caligdong, Jeff Christiaens, OJ Porteria, Demit Omphroy, Patrick Reichelt, Stephan Schrock, James Younghusband

Although Stephan is most likely unavailable for the competition, this is a solid unit anchored on its two skippers, Chieffy and James. The 2010 veterans will lead a group of young and talented players led by the PFPC sensations and Global FC teammates Christiaens, Omphroy as the wingbacks and on the right wing by Reichelt on the moments when JYH was unavailable. OJ showed promise until an illness sidelined him, while Misagh also has been a trusty sub, but he is currently rehabbing from an injury that caused him to miss the friendly in Cebu.

Forwards: Ian Araneta, Joshua Beloya, Angel Guirado, Mark Hartmann, Denis Wolf, Phil Younghusband

Interesting new wrinkle being introduced by Weiss during their match against Singapore, where Phil was doing a little more distribution. But any chance of progressing in the competition will need the UFL Golden Boot winner to do some work in putting balls into the net. In his absence due to those moments of unavailability, Denis Wolf has stepped in and in fact, won a competition with his effort. Angel has reportedly secured his club's clearance for his participation in this competition, who has been the beneficiary of his offensive production in spite of the team's struggles in the I-League. Being recalled into the national team pool is an encouraging sign for both Mark and Joshua, while Ian has already announced that this is the end of the road for him in his international career.

I ask you now this question: Who do you want to be in your Suzuki Cup 22?

The Secret to a Guy Scoring 138 points

By now, we have heard of a guy who scored 138 points in a collegiate game. Jack Taylor, a 5'10" sophomore transfer from Wisconsin-La Crosse, did it in 36 minutes for D-III school Grinnell College, attempting 108 shots in that span, making 52 of them.

71 out of the 108 attempts were from beyond the three-point arc, making 27 of them.


It needs to be said that college basketball is only 40 minutes long, so one might wonder on how they did it.