Ateneo turns over hosting rights to La Salle
University of Santo Tomas captured its 44th general championship in the closing ceremony of the UAAP Season 82 held online Saturday.
UST bagged its fourth straight overall crown after garnering 209 points in the collegiate division, also pocketing its sixth consecutive general championship in the junior’s division, its 21st overall, with 179 points.
The Tigers ruled five events in the collegiate side -- beach volleyball, table tennis and men’s judo to go with five silver and three bronze medals.
"The very successful 82nd UAAP season had just concluded. The UAAP is proof that excellence in sports continues to thrive and flourish in university campuses,” UST rector Fr. Richard Ang, OP said during the online ceremony.
“And that the rigorous training our athletes undergo and the unwavering support of the community, coaches, fans, and friends make them the champions they really are.”
"At this point, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all UAAP athletes for doing their very best and whose triumph in the UAAP inspires all. We are mighty proud of you,” he added.
The UAAP recognized 15 student-athletes with the Athlete Scholar Awards and respective Most Valuable Awards in each discipline.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the UAAP was forced to halt its second semester remainder and was not able to name an Athlete of the Year Award.
Instead, the league honored all 1,214 student-athletes lined up in the cancelled events from its centerpiece sport volleyball, football, baseball/softball, athletics, lawn tennis and 3x3 basketball.
Ateneo, meanwhile, formally turned over its hosting rights to De La Salle University, revealing its new motto for Season 83 “Fully Alive, Champions for Life.”
Ateneo president Fr. Jett Villarin, SJ virtually handed the league flag to incoming UAAP leader Bro. Raymundo Suplido, FSC of La Salle.
"As we close Season 82, we are grateful to all those who gave their all to make Season 82 possible. And it is with honor that we turn over the hosting of UAAP Season 83 to De La Salle University," said Villarin, who served as chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Season 83 is expected to be pushed back early next year.
"For the love of sports, we have to challenge ourselves to continue to excel. It is important that we do so with resilience and fortitude. Also, we must plan and play but with safety and prudence in our minds so that we do not risk the health and safety of our members,” Suplido said.