Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University | Editors Ryan Louie G. Madrid Editor-in-Chief , Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis Associate Editor,Jose Alfonso P. Sendaydiego Design and Video Editor, Glenn Paolo A. Goopio Managing Editor, John Kenneth E. Ching News Editor, Ma. Therese D. Agcopra Campus Features Editor, Hannah Mae S. Salugsugan Local Features Editor, Ma. Rosetti G. Villamor National Features Editor, Nadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi Global Features Editor, Lyle Justin A. Egay Sports Editor, Kristoffer James L. Nambatac Layout Editor, Haiko B. Magtrayo Photography Editor, Alexes June E. Baslot Freehand Editor | Finance Officers Shola Mae Rose G. Zamayla Senior Finance Officer, Frances Joy G. Tan Junior Finance Officer (Trainee) | Managers Caroline Joy R. Go Human Resource Manager, Ruth Anne B. Suson Office Manager, Kristoffer James L. Nambatac Sr. Computer Systems Manager, Glenn Paolo A. Goopio Online Accounts Manager, Janrick Carl T. Romales Jr. Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) | Staff Writers Ressan Nash N. Alonto (Trainee), Saharah Iman M. Alonto, Sam D. Garcia (On-leave), Caroline Joy R. Go, Dharyl Jean A. Indino (Trainee), Marc Stephen S. Manuel (Trainee), Ruth Anne B. Suson, Princess E. Tolentino (Trainee), Leasusana C. Ty (Trainee), Jacqueline P. Uy, Robert A. Villaluz, Jr. (Trainee), Joule Artemson D. Visabella | Staff Artists Francis Ryan Avellana (Trainee), Rochelle D. Barros (Trainee), Richard Mars A. Caberte (Trainee), Jenamae G. Espineli (Trainee), Carlo John M. Gaid, Christian Loui S. Gamolo (Trainee), Feliciano T. Legara IV (Trainee), Rico M. Magallona (Trainee), Volco J. Magbanua (Trainee), Arsenio F. Meneses III (Trainee), Breisa V. Moralde, Carmi Yvette C. Salcedo, Venice Marie P. Villo (Trainee) Moderator Mrs Ann Catherine Ticao-Acenas

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“The medics were there, but they weren’t visible.” says a student council president of his college’s experience with the medical personnel that were assigned for this year’s Intramurals.

The medics he speaks of were members of the Red Cross, sent here at the request of the University Athletics Office and the Clinic, to oversee the safety of the athletes. This group of volunteers did do their part in treating the injured during the Intramurals proper.

That is not to say, though, that they were there all the time.During the advance games, which happened two weeks before the Intrams was opened,

there were complaints from athletes and council members alike that the medics could not be found at some of their stations. The event organizers at the Pelaez Sports Complex even had to call the Athletics office to send some of the nurses at XU during one of the games.

Then there was the negligence of some of the medics on duty.“Someone got injured in the soccer field. Now what happened was… the medics were

sleeping and the students had to bang [on] the ambulance [to wake them up].” says the council president.

The organizers themselves admit that there really was a shortage of medics during the advance games. “As far as the advance games [go], I think there were no medics because we thought there would [be] very few games in soccer and basketball.” Mr. Eliodoro Ferenal, head of the Athletics Department says.

Considering that the coordinators had taken measures to lessen the amount of technical and other difficulties during the duration of the Intrams, they left out one very important detail: the health and safety of the athletes themselves.

This problem leads us to the following questions: Shouldn’t there be a committee assigned to the medical facilities to be used throughout the event? Why does XU have to outsource its medical personnel when we have a Red Cross Youth organization? And why didn’t the medics have their own booths at their designated stations, for athletes and organizers alike to easily spot and approach when in need.

Advance games or not, the safety of the players is crucial and cannot be overlooked. And if they DO overlook this in the future, maybe we’ll see a new meaning to “sacrificing bodies for the game”.C

Break a leg

EDITORIAL

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Rachel is a third-year law student who works full-time in a law firm. From 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, she’s at work in her office

and at 5 onwards, she’s at her classes. The rest of the night is spent reading bulky books to meet the academic demands of the College of Law.

Two weeks before the Intramurals, she had to add in yet another activity on top of her already loaded routine. She now had to wake up as early as 4:00 am to attend practices for her college’s soccer and softball teams where she was defender and fielder respectively.

Notwithstanding a shortage of sleep and having to race against time to get duties done, Rachel sighs happily, saying that participating in the Intramurals is her stress reliever, an escape from all the strain in school and work. Of course, the idea of winning is still in tow, but the desire for friendly competition and stress relief through sports are top reasons for her Intramural participation.

Rachel and the few other sports enthusiasts who put the indulgence of athletic glory aside for the sheer fun of the game–especially Medicine and

Do you ever notice the big blue “X” printed on our gym’s center court? Looks sleek, doesn’t it? Only, it isn’t

really ours. The big blue “X” I am talking about is the

same logo trademarked by a school coincidentally sharing the same name with our own--Xavier University of Cincinnati, Ohio in the US. It is quite surprising how, despite this, its logo has been etched in our varsity’s jerseys, employees’ uniforms, tarpaulins and blown up in the middle of our gym for everyone to see. It is almost as if this “X” has become XU’s secondary logo except that there hasn’t been a document written to make it official.

This is not a question of whether it is legal or not. One could always justify that although the letter “X” was copied as it was in the other Xavier University’s logo, a small image of a Crusader was imprinted on the bottom right corner of the “X” making it distinct in the most subtle manner.

Identity. It is a crucial element of any individual, group or, institution. It is what defines something and makes it unique from its contemporaries. Xavier University of Ohio did not intend to have their logo used by just anyone, even stating terms and conditions of use in their website. Besides, they had reason to. It was made to reflect their institution, not anybody else’s, and

Law students—set the Intramurals on a lighter, less aggressive and more congenial mood. This feat seems to be lacking in most college front-runners where winning is the name of the game and losing is not an option. It even appears that the Law and Medicine teams know and imbibe sportsmanship better than top seed colleges who claim gamesmanship but succumb to bitterness and sourgraping upon defeat.

What’s more, the very fact that these athletes continue to take the time out to participate despite a seemingly elusive win is reflective of sportsmanship in itself.

We may never see the Law or Medicine sports team getting hailed as the Intramural champion, but it may be so because they are never really competing in the first place. Just like Rachel, they could be in the Intramurals for the sheer fun of it – and that’s quite refreshing for a university intramurals tainted with so much rivalry and competition.C

For comments, suggestions and/or reactions, please email the columnist at ryanlouiemadrid@thecrusaderpublication.com

certainly not XU. If we are to be at par with the Eagles of the Ateneo de Manila or the Maroons of the University of the Philippines-Diliman, we must first establish ourselves as Crusaders of Xavier University -Ateneo de Cagayan and not Musketeers of Xavier University - Ohio.

Take it from Steve Jobs when he said “Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” Take it from the students and staff of the University of Santo Tomas who protested after a sudden change of their University Seal. A secondary logo’s design does matter, after all.

Fr. Bobby Yap has been keen in his drive for a more “professional organization” in XU. “Dili na morag gamay nga grocery ang XU…Morag shopping mall nata.” he said in his Investiture speech. “Our systems, policies, and procedures need to be of a quality that is at par with the leading national and international universities.”

If this administration does begin to push for a more professional XU, a little clarification and action on this secondary logo should be a good start.

After all, I’m sure SM didn’t just grab a logo from somewhere and claimed it as their own.C

For comments, suggestions and/or reactions, please email the columnist at japsendaydiego@thecrusaderpublication.com

Playing for relief

An X for originality

OPINION

Versus

The 6th man

Ryan Louie G. Madrid

Jose Alfonso P. Sendaydiego

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Moments before the presentation of the trophy for the Intramurals 2011 overall champion, the

Warriors of the College of Engineering gathered in sheer excitement at center court in XU Gym – feasting their eyes and palms on the trophy that has eluded them for six long years.

Six years seemed like an eternity for the Warriors; always falling short in wresting the trophy from the clutches of the School of Business and Management (SBM) Eagles, despite being perennial contenders to the throne.

The six-year droughtIt is worth noting that Engineering last

tasted overall championship in 2004, before SBM embarked on their streak. Since then, the Warriors’ finished among the top three in the overall table perennially.

Last year, Engineering made an early lead, only to lose it during the weekend as the Eagles leapt past them in the standings to claim the title by a measly 23 points.

Less is moreOne of the pressing issues leading

up to Intramurals 2011 was the perceived regression of the Warriors – now that the Engineering’s Computer Science course claimed its autonomy from the college, and subsequently became the College of Computer Studies (CoCS).

The establishment of the CoCS Wizards led many – even Engineering students themselves – to believe that the Warriors had a dimmer chance to topple the Eagles from their lofty perch, since some of past Warriors teams were bannered by Computer Science students, especially in team sports.

“Feel nako kay ang Engineering kay magka-minus ang kakusog sa ilang mga players. Medyo nabulabog ang lineup sa ilang team ug sa uban pang mga group sa mga sports. Okay ra

man gihapon ang mga individual kay naa ra sila,” said a Mechanical Engineering student.

“Not really. Wala. Abi nako’g ma-dominate nasad sa SBM. One-third ang CS (Computer Science) sa Engineering so I guess [if] magamyan ang population, magamyan sad ang players,” said an Electronics and Communications Engineering student who, incidentally, was part of the Warriors chess team. “I guess [there is] little chance, like gamay lang jud siguro na chance.”

Yet, Engineering shrugged off the depletion of its ranks, punctuated by winning the overall plum. Association of College of Engineering Students President Christine May Creayla remarked, “Na-manage man pud namo na ma-ano ang points. So far, in terms of talent and skills sa sports, nakaya gyud kaayo namo.”

Creayla also welcomed the participation of the Wizards, relating this to their own chances of victory, “No. I guess wala siya naka-affect kay somehow mas nakita pud ang potential sa CompStud. Actually naa pud sila’y players na maayo.”

People are surprised of the Warriors’ performance this year – and for good reason.

“Wa ko nagtuo nga maka-score sila ug hundred points kapin nga labaw sa SBM. So, wa gyud ko nag-expect nga grabe ilang bira sa sports,” said the same Mechanical Engineering student.

“As what’s apparent karong Intrams, it actually did them a lot of good. I asked an Engineering guy himself, he said pud na ang pagbulag sa CS [CompStud] gave the other guys a chance to step up. Of course na-realize ang potential sa most of the players sa CS,” observed an International Studies student. “I think it is about a sense of urgency sa Engineering. They felt na things aren’t gonna be as easy as they were back then, ‘Mas gamay na ta so dapat maningkamot ta.’ And it paid off a lot.”

Warriors charge!En route to winning the championship,

the Warriors bagged gold medals in eight sports: athletics; swimming; men’s basketball; women’s basketball; karatedo; taekwondo; badminton; and sepak takraw.

The Warriors established an early lead during the advance games for athletics and swimming, earning 63 and 123 points respectively. They grabbed golds in women’s 100m dash, women’s 200m dash, 400m dash, 50m breaststroke, and 100m backstroke. Despite the gold medal haul, the Warriors were regulars at the podium in both events.

In men’s basketball, the maroon squad ended the three-year reign of the yellow team, using their size advantage and tough interior defense as they crushed the Eagles, 66-52.

Overall, they also fared well in combat sports karatedo and taekwondo as they achieved the most points in these sports: in karatedo, they earned 83 points; and garnered 88 points in taekwondo.

Though they finished second to SBM in points (24 to the Eagles’ 30), Warrior shuttlers were champions in men’s doubles.

Engineering avenged its loss to the Center for Integrated Technologies Knights in sepak takraw to claim the title.

These victories contributed greatly to the 542 points the Warriors amassed in Intrams 2011. The Eagles came in second with 439, and the College of Arts and Sciences Tigers, 367.

***As they laid their hands on the trophy,

Engineering put an end to six years of near misses. Finally, the Warriors exorcised their demons and reclaimed the trophy that, they say, is rightfully theirs.C

By John Kenneth E. Ching

RULE OF THE TRIBE:Warriors end Eagles’ six-year flight

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Knights silence Bullriders, 2-0

By John Kenneth E.Ching

The Knights won their second straight championship, this time with a shutout of the Bullriders through

standout pitching and fielding.Knights pitcher Louis Kim Cabayacruz

threw for three scoreless innings to dominate

Eagles defend softball title

The Lady Eagles returned from a heavy deficit to emerge victorious in the women’s softball finale against the Tigers,

successfully retaining their title last September 20 at the XU open field.

Opening up with a solid defense early on, the Tigers eliminated the first few batters of the Eagles. But despite the powerful pitching of the Eagles, the first inning ended with neither team making a single point. The second inning saw more action as the Tigers boosted their offensive by making tough bats and quick runs, generating a series of home runs that led to an 0-4 lead.

Rising to the challenge, the Eagles finally hit their first home base during the third and last inning. They were just getting warmed up. Still eager and determined to win, the Eagles strove to catch up to the Tigers’ lead by making swift steals, triumphantly changing the score from 0-4 to 5-4 in no time. The game wrapped up with the Eagles’ one-point win.

“Since naa nami’y history, mas confident ug motivated mi”, asserts Eagle Aile Perez about their in-game mindset.

Meanwhile, the Warriors placed third after beating the Pythons.C

2009 champions Bullriders, taking advantage of an improved pitching arm. “Mas ni-improve ang akong pitching karon nga Intrams. Mas nikusog ang akong bola,” remarked Cabayacruz.

The Knights drew first blood with a Christi Ray Jay Tuzara hit, sending Menchie Boy Zamora home. In the bottom of the inning, the Bullriders were unable to score despite having two runners on base.

After a scoreless second inning, John Vincent Pabilona of the Knights doubled the lead off a Michael Angelo Mendez hit. Cabayacruz’s pitching, and superb fielding by the Knights finished off the Bullriders in the bottom of the third, culminating with a force out.

The pitcher noted that the team’s preparation made them successful. “Happy kaayo mi kay champion gihapon mi. Siguro tsada ang among performance karon nga Intrams. Sayo pud mi nagsugod ug practice,” an elated Cabayacruz said.

In the bronze medal game, the Tigers rallied from one run down in the final inning to beat the Pythons, 5-4.C

The Warriors overcame a battle against the other colleges, shouting and kicking with

intensity, to lay claim on the females’ taekwondo competition on September 18 at the XU Gym. The Warriors owned the gold for three categories out of six, namely the Finweight, Flyweight and Bantamweight weight divisions.

Marven Malalay took the offensive from start to finish, keeping her opponents down to win the Finweight category. Meanwhile, Stephanie Secerio dominated the Flyweight division, and Joy Ipanag won the Bantamweight division. To add to their accolades, the Warriors got bronze in two more categories.

The Eagles earned two gold medals, through Janexa Palantica and Janine Alani’s victories over the Lightweight and Welterweight divisions respectively. On the other hand, Stefan Ferraris of the Pythons earned gold in the Featherweight category.C

Female Warriors harvest golds in taekwondoBy Saharah Iman M.Alonto

By Rochelle D. Barros

COMING HOME. CIT Knight perfectly times dive for home base. (F. LEGARA)

SPLIT SECOND. The crowd watches as Eagle moves to complete a home run. (F. LEGARA)

www.thecrusaderpublication.com 7

By Robert A. Villaluz, Jr.

By Marc Stephen S. Manuel and Robert A. Villaluz, Jr.

Eagles dethrone Bullriders, dominate men’s soccer

Pythons edge Warriors to grip six-peat in soccer

The lady Pythons’ grit and hard work have, once again, paved the way en route to a squeak past their familiar

rival Warriors, 2-1 on penalties, in the Women’s soccer championship game at the frenzied Xavier University soccer field.

The game was tied at one goal apiece at the end of extra time and drifted to a penalty shoot-out. Five years running, the Pythons imposed total domination in this division of the Intramurals. Now, they have added another title to their record of 5 straight wins .

Defending champs started out strong, pressuring the Warriors with relentless zeal. The Warriors were coerced to toughen their defensive play, being pushed back into their half of the field. Though the Pythons kept coming back at them, the Warriors did not let up and instead showed their tenacity, bringing the ball up dangerously close to their opponent’s goal post more than once. The Pythons responded with a tougher defense, perking up the team’s game.

Later on, both sides had a couple of near misses that hyped up the crowd. The Pythons slowly gained momentum as they brought the ball across the field and into the Warriors’ half who sooner committed a foul. This proved costly as a free kick was given to the enlivened Pythons, which Donna Aba translated to the first net-rip of the game to grab the driver’s seat.

September 20-21 – The Eagles’ football team imposed tenacious defense to complete an upset against the defending champion after

besting them 3-2 on penalties in the two-day finals match of the Intramurals which saw a jampacked XU soccer field.

The top-seeded Eagles soared past the bets from the Tigers, Knights, Wolves, and Warriors to secure the elusive finals berth.

The team’s latest achievement was a finals appearance way back 2007, where they fell to 2nd place. After that, the Eagles soccer team had many forgettable performances year after year, hardly even putting up points to the School of Business and Management’s overall score.

The Eagles drew first blood as standout Leonell Lascay fired a shot which went all the way to the Bullriders’ net. Before the first half ended, the Bullriders answered back with a vicious kick which flew past the goalkeeper and into the goal to tie the game at one apiece.

On the ninth minute of the second half, game officials and both teams agreed to stop the game and resume it the next day due to insufficient lighting and the 6:00 pm sky.

Both teams played with crisp passing and sound goal keeping, plus a little bit more physicality, which made the game exciting. The score was tied at the end of the regular time, forcing a penalty shootout to reveal the champion.

It was 2-2 after the fourth striker. The Eagles banked their fifth shot via a kick to the right side of the goal. The Bullriders had their last chance to even out things but failed to convert their last kick in a heartbreaking goal post hit, which propelled the Eagles to the football plum.

The coach-less Eagles were steered to the finals by varsity players Marco Potenciano, Charles Villarta, and Lexbert Quinga. Lascay gratefully quotes, “Sila man ang nag-coach sa amo. Sila ang ga-manage sa substitutions and etc... We really want to thank them.”C

Not to be outplayed, the Warriors made a beeline dash through the Pythons’ defensive lines, bringing the ball at close range to the goal post. This was followed by a series of missed shots contested by the Pythons’ goalkeeper who established game-long persistence, gathering hurrahs from the crowd.

The Pythons then slithered across the Warriors’ defensive lines and made attempt up close, but was stopped by the Warriors’

goalkeeper. Following this smashing save, the Warriors unleashed a barrage of goal attempts, which won them a free kick from a foe’s foul. The Warriors did not waste the opportunity and edged the ball close to the post, which gave them the opportunity to get inside, earning a goal, setting the score at a deadlock of 1-1.

A shoot-out was called to determine the victor. After a series of 5 shootouts, the Pythons won 2-1 against the Warriors.C

Design by Kristoffer Jam

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FOOT WARS. Bullrider and Eagle clashwith their vicious kicks. (V. MAGBANUA)

INTERCEPTION. Warrior slide tackles to take away Python’s possession. (H. MAGTRAYO)

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Tigers reclaim men’s volleyball gloryBy Joule Artemson D. Visabella

After losing the title to the Warriors last year, the Tigers recaptured their volleyball crown as they upset the hopeful Eagle’s

bid in the best-of-five championship game, 25-21, 25-19, 25-21.

Leading the team to victory was top seed setter Andre Nikko Torres who not only set the ball with precision but gave a downpour of hard-hitting aces to trump the Eagles throughout the game. Fortifying the Tiger line-up were former varsity players John Claude Salas, Gabriel Salas and Artemio Manto.

The first quarter proved to be indication for the Tiger’s win as they relied on their feline instincts, treating the ball like a mitten. The game was abruptly halted due to an illegal rotation, but when the game resumed, the Tigers were quick to pick up on a furious exchange of spikes and shots.

In the middle of the long-standing rallies, the Eagles, on the other hand, seemed to have lost focused and cohesion, causing them to weaken their defense. Despite occasional loud arguments on the court, the Eagles still managed to deliver few smooth swerves, tosses and spikes.

But in the end, the Tigers ruled supreme. “Expected na namo,” boasts team captain Louie Pearson, adding, “teamwork and friendship [made us win.]”C

Pythons, Warriors reapmen’s badminton goldBy Dharyl Jean A. Indino

Looking to have a better showing from last year’s Intrams, the Pythons and the Warriors took over the men’s badminton

competition on September 17 at the Covered Courts.

Python Peter Rey Toepe smashed two men’s singles champ titles in a row, this year battling against Wizard Karl Andrew Labay. The newbie college’s sportsman ferociously tried to shatter Toepe but the former again verified his irrefutable skills in the sport made apparent in his control over the two sets of the game with the scores 21-16 and 21-17.

In the second set, muscle cramps tried to torment Toepe but were bravely endured, giving his sole focus in winning the bout. “Nag-action siya’g cramps sa last set pero gikaya ra nako, and happy ko kay na-test nako a.kong skills and I was able to give honor to the college.”

In the men’s doubles, the Warriors finally clutched the laurel after having placed only second last year. Eduardo Apalla and Jestoferson Uy of the Warriors effortlessly gained the first spot as they won by forfeiture against Ryan Paul Abut and Miguel Peliño of the Pythons.

When asked how the Warriors feel about winning by default, Apalla said, “Okay ra japun

at least na-champion mi pero mas nice unta kung nagdula jud mi.”

Third place for both events was seized by the Wolves with Bonn Ma for the Men’s Singles, and Kim Luardo and Ely Ricarte for the duo match.C

Eagles upset Tigresses in women’s volleyball By Ryan Louie G. Madrid

Coming behind an early advantage by the Tigers, the Eagles turned the table in explosive fashion, scoring the last three sets

in a row to be hailed women’s volleyball champion, on September 20 at the Covered Courts.

The Tigers were favored to win at the get-go, what with the athleticism and vibrancy of the team led by star player and spiker Abigail Fabre. With Fabre consistently going for the kill against the weak defense of the Eagles, the Tigers owned the first set.

In the second set, however, the Eagles perked up by intensifying their defense. Eagle captain and spiker Fe Allene Bolinquit was now blocking and even roofing Fabre’s spikes, evening out the score at 15-15. The two teams rallied throughout the set, but the Eagle’s cohesion proved better than the Tiger’s offensive attacks, 25-22.

The third set saw the Eagles investing on shots and drops to secure an eight-point lead early on the set, 13-5. Not to be outdone, the Tigers made a

ferocious comeback by preventing any side outs at all cost, adding in six straight points, 13-11. Eagles responded with even more aggressive digs from the back row defense and surefire spikes from Bolinquit, concluding the set with 25-19.

The Tiger crowd was now waning and taking a backseat as the Eagle supporters hyped up. The Eagle athletes, too, were now well ahead of the game, confident of their point advantage. Nevertheless, the spirited Tigers kept the game going with their libero and the receivers bolstering up their defense. They managed to sneak in a few more scores, before the Eagles sealed the win at 25-16.

“Kusog man jud ang Arts, last year sila japun among kontra… [pero] grabe nga fulfillment nga until karon, daog japun mi,” said Bolinquit of their rivals. She admitted that her team had conflicting schedules and was unable to train a libero for the team, but added, “we had teamwork and concentration” as their winning formula.C

THE PYTHON STANCE. A follow through after an extensive counter. (R. AVELLANA)

DISSECTING THE DEFENSES. Tigress spikes over the Eagle defender. (H. MAGTRAYO)

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Warriors obliterate Eagles in men’s basketball, 66-52By Ressan Nash N. Alonto

The Warriors finally thrashed the three-year winning streak of the Eagles with the final score of 66-52 during the September

20 Intramurals basketball championship at the XU Gym.

Eagle captain Jett Yaranon led the Eagles with 13 points. However, the yellow team couldn’t handle the inside presence of Warrior Bonn John Orquiza who spearheaded Engineering with 19 points, with guard Prince Allen Lolor chipping in with 17.

The Warriors overwhelmed the Eagles with a flurry of baskets and a smothering defense to earn an early 17-7 advantage. The College of Engineering crowd shouted its approval in the second quarter, when Lolor sank a series of three-pointers to end the half 34-20 in favour of the maroon team.

During the start of the second half, the Eagles struggled to gain the lead from the Warriors, who remained on top with baskets from Jonart Tabanao, John Louie Ablanque, and Mark Lawrence Tan. The Eagles tried to fight back with a couple of trifectas by Jhordann Lomonggo and James Dahilan, but could not come over the

Warriors, who ended with a 47-32 lead at the end of the period.

During the closing minutes of the game, the Warriors proved their domination, grabbing five offensive rebounds in a row and ending with a basket in the paint by Orquiza.

“Teamwork jud… have faith in God, mao nang number one gyud,” center Orquiza said of his team’s winning formula. “Tanan-tanan bai, among practices, among hago… niabot sa 5-0 na win… among team na-champion. Nakuha gyud namo.”C

Warriors slip past Eagles in women’s hoops overtime

Lady Eagle shuttlers keep title By Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis

The Eagles once again dominated the courts in badminton, grabbing the gold in both women’s singles and doubles, as

well as in mixed doubles.Eagle Maria Ellinor Bitanga took an early

lead against Warrior Monirih Abejuela in the women’s singles championship game, scoring a 21-8 in the first set. Her agility gave her an edge over Abejuela’s stronger serves. Abejuela did not recover in the second set, ending with only 4 points to Bitanga’s victorious 21.

Viraliza Belok of the Wolves, who was forced to only eight and seven points respectively in the semi-finals match against Bitanga, recovered in the Finals to take home the bronze after beating the Pythons in a close fight.

The Eagles reigned again in the women’s doubles, winning against the Pythons in the championship game. Lady Eagles Kristine Adrianne Labay and Jehanne Marie Manguiran capitalized on their speed as they played a good defense, winning two straight sets against Pythons Moreen Daba and Donna Aba.

Fighting for third were the Phoenixes and the Tigers. The former had an early advantage, leaving the Tigers with only 12 points. The Tigers, however, fought back in the second set, garnering 22-20. The third set was a close fight, and both teams were close to the 21 mark. In the end, Phoenixes Franchesca Miole and Nicole Siena prevailed by 2 points.

The mixed doubles gold was bagged by Eagles tandem Bitanga and Abdulbari Solaiman, playing against Warriors Abejuela and John Mark Sabellina. The match started with a neck to neck race to the 21 mark, but halfway through the first set, Sabellina contracted a foot injury, weakening the Warriors’ defense. The Eagles strengthened their offense and finished the set on top, 21-12.

The second set saw the Warriors much fatigued. The Eagles notched nine straight points while the Warriors remained scoreless and struggling. That proved to be the trend, as the Warriors were held off to only six points throughout the set. A Sabellina smash that fell short gave the game to the Eagles.

In 3rd place were the Bullriders tandem of Julie Ann Marie Yap and Lanz Turrecha, who defeated the Wizards, 21-17 for both sets.C

The Warriors rallied hard in the fourth quarter to draw level with the Eagles’ 25 points, setting in motion an electrifying

overtime. Keeping their composure, the Warriors gloriously defeated the Eagles, 29-27, in the extra period during the final game for women’s basketball on September 20 at the XU Gym.

Trailing in the first period with 12-5, the Warriors made a dash in the second quarter with nine points while the Eagles scored a feeble two.

But with the Eagles’ stifling defense, the Warriors were only able to finish even with them in the last two minutes of the fourth quarter, with Kathy Kamputcha Paguican leading the charge to knot the score to 23 all.

However, the Eagles were quick to recoup by gaining two points; but on the last 17 seconds

of the final quarter, Warrior Kesha Mae Jeun scored on a putback to send the game into overtime with 25-25.

After a series of failed attempts, Eagle Dominique Ann Habunal then scored the first basket in overtime, setting the score to 27-25. However, the maroon squad had a better offensive showing when Warrior Kimberly Alia managed a triple, giving them a one-point advantage.

With the ball in the Eagles’ possession, the gym went afire with the crowd all shouting defense. But a series of missed attempts from the Eagles and a foul by Habulan gave the Warriors another one point, taking them to a 29-27 lead at 0:26 mark before going dry the rest of the way.C

MAN-TO-MAN. Warrior searches for anopening to Eagle’s smothering. (V. VILLO)

By Hannah Mae S. Salugsugan

Design by Kristoffer Jam

es Nam

batac and Rochelle Barros

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www.thecrusaderpublication.com 11

Design by Francis Ryan Avellana. Photos by H

aiko Magtrayo, Fourth Legara, Francis Ryan Avellana, Volco M

agbanua, Venice Villo and Carmi Yvette Salcedo

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Bullriders, Warriors top ping-pong menBy Dharyl Jean A. Indino

Tigresses rule over women’s table tennisBy Lyle Justin A.Egay

The Tigers’ table tennisters proved that they are on top of the food chain, decimating the competition to

win golds in most categories at the women’s table tennis competition, held on September 18 at the XU Covered Courts.

Mara Telen, who was last year’s runner up, led the hunt for the Tigresses, earning the top spot this time around in the singles category. Following suit were the Wizards’ Emelie Agnes Nagales, who grabbed second place, and Eagles’ Michelle Jean Bacas settled with bronze.

Telen showed her athletic prowess yet again, this time pairing with Mary Rose Cordero to dominate the doubles event, while Warriors duo Alech Madeleine Abogado and Sugar Estrada earned silver and Bullriders team-up Rizza Coma and Queen Mata placed third.

The team from the Wizards reaped the gold in the team event. Meanwhile, the Eagles and the Tigers won 2nd and 3rd respectively.

The Tigers avnged themselves in this year’s tourney after trailing closely behind the Eagles’ victory last year.

Warriors tyrannize karatedo competitionBy Lyle Justin A. Egay

After a hard-fought battle against the Eagles, the Warriors’ men’s Kumite team ensured their domination

of the Karatedo competition, held on September 18 at the XU Gym.

The Warriors won the most golds during the said event, topping four divisions, namely men’s Team Kata, Individual Kata for men and women, and women’s 55 kg individual Kumite.

The Warriors and the Phoenixes shared the top spot in men’s and women’s team Kumite. The Eagles got 2nd place in both divisions, while the Bullriders and the Tigers got bronze in men’s and women’s divisions respectively.

For Team Kata, the Warriors scored 25.3 points to win the men’s division, followed by the Knights with 24.9 and Tigers with 24.6.

In the women’s division, the maroon team garnered 24.7 points to bag gold, while the Eagles and the Pythons got 2nd and 3rd respectively with 24.5 points.

The men’s 60 kg individual Kumite competition saw a hard-fought battle between Warrior Maico Abao and Eagle Michael Valdueza. In a back-and-forth contest, Valdueza eventually came out on top to claim gold. Meanwhile, Knight Dean Andrew Aldea earned bronze.

In the 55 kg category, Eagle Wisdom Miñoza got 1st place over Warrior Sydney Tong and Tiger Criszaelle Miñon, who got 2nd and 3rd respectively. Silvester Miel of the Knights claimed the 65 kg weight class, while Tiger James Young got 2nd and Jonah James Bacalso bagged 3rd. In the 70 kg category, Felixberto Roxas of the College

of Law owned gold, followed by Warrior Constantine Quiblat and Eagle Jeremiah Seno.

The Pythons earned two golds in women’s individual Kumite, winning the 53 kg and 60+ kg weight classes. Python Ruvie Jane Cugay won 1st in the 53 kg category, followed by Warrior Jailane dela Cruz and Eagle Lou Fria Viturillo. Python Angel Kaye Beja grabbed gold in the 60+ kg division, succeeded by Ading Alonto of the Eagles and Karen Madrona of the Warriors.

Meanwhile, Warrior Lindsay Tablan topped the 55 kg weight class. Eagle Annie Aboc and Python Jochelle Rosal got 2nd and 3rd respectively. Chara Lee Lacang of the Wizards earned gold in the 60 kg category, followed by Loralai Hipolito of the Eagles and Phoenix Mica Chalde.

After a number of heated matches, the Bullriders and the Warriors emerged victorious, earning the most golds in

men’s table tennis.The feisty Bullriders Ruben Marba

and Rizza Corro seized the mixed doubles championship title against Eric Elpa and Peterjane Batutay of the Eagles. Marba and Corro proved to be more skillful than their opponent as they played their way through even without the intervention of their coach.

In the last set, Elpa failed to keep up a rally, paving way for the victory of the Bullriders. The duo dominated the first and the last two sets with the scores 11-6, 7-11, 11-7 and 11-6. Tigers Mark Risty Tan-awon and Mara Telen then landed themselves bronze.

Men’s singles was again towered by Marba who brought down Xave Cates Batutay of the Knights in explosive fashion. The third spot was grabbed by Paul Mikko Llenos of the Warriors.

In the men’s doubles, Warriors Rodjohn Bagajo and Paul Mikko Llenos clashed triumphantly against the paws of the Tigers Ramuel Garcia and Christian James Besinga. The Wizards then earned the 3rd place with the Richard Illescas and Kenneth John Jaducana team-up.

Meanwhile in the team event, the Warriors again charged to victory as they established superiority over the contedning Tigers. The Knights trailed behind, earning the bronze medal in the fast-paced sport.

ON OFFENSE. Bullrider Marba sets the ball in the right direction on his serve. (R. AVELLANA)

www.thecrusaderpublication.com 13

Warriors take down Knights in takraw battleBy Caroline Joy R. Go

Gogo, Adubal crowned first Mr. and Ms. IntramuralsBy Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis

Avenging a 2-0 loss in last year’s final, the Warriors took the throne from the Knights, by the same score as

they once again clashed in Sepak Takraw at the XU covered courts last September 20.

Knight Phillip Parojinog led the Knights’ charge with accurate and daring kick flips, but it was Warrior Arlox Piquero’s counters and the regu’s teamwork that landed them the huge advantage throughout the 34-minute game, with a 21-17 and 21-10 for the respective sets.

Warrior team captain Adrian Mainit states “Kami giyapon nagbangga. Last year, kami ang nazerohan... so pasalamat karun nagbawi mi, go Engineering!” as the team celebrated.

While the Knights stepped down at second, the Wizards, proving that the new college wasn’t to be taken lightly, bagged third, and the Pythons followed in fourth place.

September 20—Eryk Kay Gogo of the Tigers and Louise Caroline Adubal of the Pythons took home the title in

the first-ever Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2011 pageant organized by the Central Student Government.

The XU Gym rang with cheers, applause, and raucous laughter as the contestants, one pair from each of the colleges, strutted across the floor for the competition’s three categories: the casual wear, the sportswear and presentation, and the Sophie line.

The casual attire category had the contestants dancing to Maroon 5’s “Moves Like Jagger” in their Ateneo shirt and shorts, before they came forward to introduce themselves. The highlight of the evening, however, was the sportswear and presentation category. Wearing their sports attires, each college pair simultaneously showed their prowess in their chosen sport.

The audience gasped in astonishment as the contestants executed cheerdance moves, taekwondo kicks, and badminton exhibitions that went on a little too long. What brought on their raucous laughter, though, was the Frisbee that flew away, the basketball that got stuck beside the basket and was taken down by the soccer ball, and the soccer ball

that won’t be kicked.

After the hilarity died down, it was time for the audience to gape in awe and whistle appreciatively as the contestants r a m p e d down in their Sophie Martin attire. S o p h i e Martin, an international brand of fashion apparel, is one of the main sponsors of the event. In this competition, the Sophie Martin staff chose the male and female contestant who worn their Sophie attire best, and awarded them a Sophie Martin modelling contract.

The pageant had no Q&A portion, and went right on to the awarding. Boardwalk and Redfern Spa each sponsored an award, granting a modelling contract to Python Jessie James Tubeo and Phoenix Lorraine

Santos, and Wizard Carl Manere and Eagle Kathlyn Denise Villanueva, respectively. The Mr. and Ms. Sophie Martin award and modelling contract were also won by Tubeo and Santos.

The Mr. and Ms. Photogenic were Manere and Villanueva, while Mr. and Ms. Congeniality went to Tubeo and Adubal. Gogo and Santos won Best in Casual Attire. Gogo and fellow Tiger Kathlene Ann Co took home the sash for both Best in Sports Wear and Best in Sports Presentation.

Design by Jose A

lfonso Sendaydiego and Arsenio M

eneses III

ATHLETICISM. Warrior combines skill and timing to make the perfect kick. (R. AVELLANA)

RED AND BLUE. Tiger Gogo and Python Adubal smile for the camera after winning Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2011. (R. AVELLANA)

14

Bullriders, Knights amass swimming golds

Warriors, Lady Eagles take home the chess crown

By Ruth Anne B. Suson

By Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis and Caroline Joy R. Go

Tigers reignin men’s taekwondoBy Arsenio III F. Meneses

After a series of blocks, kicks and open-handed strikes, the Tigers dominated the medal tally in the

taekwondo men’s division as they captured a total of seven medals, including three gold and four bronze medals, on September 18 at the XU Gym.

The three gold medals were from Marion Rey Jomo, Rodner Gulmatico and Eryk Gogo in the Fin, Bantam and Light weight divisions respectively.

On the second spot were the Warriors with Edward Pacifico as gold medalist in the heavyweight division.

Trailing behind are the Knights with one gold, two silver, and one bronze, and the Bullriders who have two gold and two bronze medals respectively. Next to them are the Pythons with one silver and two bronze medals.

On the other hand, last year’s towering team, the Eagles, managed to scratch only one gold and silver medal for this year.

The Bullriders swam their way to victory with a total of 135 points in

the XU Intramurals swimming competition on September 11 at the Pelaez Sports Center. The Warriors made a close 2nd with 123 points overall, and the Tigers came in 3rd with 90 points.

The sun beat hot as the swimmers of different colleges took up positions around the 50-meter long swimming pool. The competitors alternated between the male and female categories in a total of 24 different events.

The Bullriders swept the men’s division, with Kyle Recto nailing 1st place for the 50m backstroke, 100m butterfly, and 50m butterfly; Bullrider Dean Frederick Yap meanwhile got the golds for the 50m and 100m freestyle, while the Bullriders’ swim team dominated the group events, making it 1st in the 4x50m freestyle, 4x100m medley relay, 4x100m freestyle, and the 4x50m medley relay. Warrior Napoleon Angelo Fernan won 1st place in the 50m breaststroke and the 100m backstroke, while Andre

Amamio grasped gold for the Tigers in the 100m breaststroke.

Micah Sayosay of the Knights’ women’s swim team went on a relentless winning streak, collecting all eight golds for the individual events for women: the 50m backstroke, 100m butterfly, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, 50m butterfly, 100m backstroke, 50m freestyle, and 100m freestyle. The Tigers’ swim team in turn harvested the relays’ and medleys’ golds, namely, the 4x50m freestyle, 4x100 medley relay, 4x100m freestyle, and the 4x50 medley relay, with the Lady Warriors following 2nd in each group event.

The yellow Eagles swept competitors as they garnered a perfect team score of 18, beating two-year defending

champion, the Pythons, who came in 2nd with 15 points, followed by the Wizards at 3rd place with 14 points during the chess tournament held on September 19 at the Magis Student Complex canteen.“Happy [mi] kay dugay na kaayo since the last [time] nadaog ang SBM girls. Ang score pa gyud kay almost perfect ang dula, and na-defeat pa gyud namo ang champion last year,” team captain Ivy Amper exclaims when asked how it felt to bag the gold.

Amper, along with teammates MJ Nalitan and Caroline Go, nabbed a flawless 18 points each for Boards 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Wizard Merari Cebrian also with a perfect 18, grabbed gold for board 4.

In the men’s division, the Warriors wrested the trophy from the Eagles’ claws as they scored a total of 17 points. The Eagles came in second with 15 points, while the

Knights brought home the bronze with 14 points.

The Warriors’ win came as a surprise, since the boards were dominated by the other colleges. Board 1 was won by Python Raphael Pasimio with 18 points. Knight Jonathan Nabatlao earned the gold for Board 2 with another perfect 18. Eagles James Valmoria and George Sia placed first for Board 3 and 4, respectively.

The Warriors, however, scored high since the start of the tourney, and it was this that gave them enough points to get ahead despite some losses in the later rounds.

“I guess what made us win is a good sleep [the night before],” quips Warrior Rico Magallona, who won bronze in Board 2. “Chess is a mind game. […] If you’re not in condition, if you’re sick, […] you wouldn’t be fit [enough] to play chess.”C

MIND BATTLE. Chess players decode their opponent’s move for the upperhand. (V. VILLO)

BUTTERFLY IN WATER. Bullrider Recto executes perfect butterfly strokes to victory. (N. ALONTO)

www.thecrusaderpublication.com 15

Tigers, Warriors nail AthleticsBy Leasusana C. Ty

By Jacqueline P. Uy

By Princess E. Tolentino

September 11, 2011 – After a hyped up battle of speed and prowess among the colleges, the Warriors and the Tigers

scored gold in three events in athletics.In the women’s 100m dash, Kimberly

Alia bagged 1st for the Warriors, while Eagle Jeanette Galarpe placed 2nd with a margin of 0.58 seconds, and Phoenix Regiena Huerbana came in 3rd with a difference of 0.02 seconds.

Alia nabbed 1st place in Women’s 200m dash within 29.35 seconds. Tiger Karissa Falcon came in 2nd, while Huerbana leaped for 3rd place.

Lee Michael Paayas of the Tigers nabbed

Accurate shots and close-to-perfect serves proved enough for the Warriors to secure victory in the

lawn tennis men’s division on September 17.In the first singles match, Tiger Raj Rey

Batao outdid Warrior Louven Raj Gecosala at 8-2. Nonetheless, fortune favored the Warriors as Ivan Lui defeated Tiger Moises Emmanuel de Torres at 8-2 as well in the

gold in the men’s 200m dash, finishing within 25.04 seconds, while Warrior Allen Lolor claimed 2nd, besting Jasper Alonsabe by 0.11 seconds.

The Tigers dominated both men’s and women’s 4 x 100m relay, winning over the Warriors by split seconds while the Pythons and the Knights won bronze in the women’s and men’s divisions respectively.

Christi Rey Jay Tuzara of the Knights won 1st in the men’s 100m dash, followed by Warrior Joseph Alboladora in 2nd place with 0.04 seconds to boot and Phoenix Jasper Alonsabe in 3rd place by a

0.41-second difference.For the women’s 400m dash, Eagle

Darlene Doctor grabbed 1st place followed by Python Jennifer Ceudi – Arzinze and Warrior Cristine Joy Ipanag. In the men’s division, Moshe Gamos dashed into 1st place for the Warriors, besting Tiger Paayas and Phoenix Ralph Magsalay.

“We [had] to defend our title… when we saw the other players we were like ‘Thou shall not kompyansa.’ But then, bisag kulang mi ug practice kay naka place japun mi. Mao na siya ang dako nga achievement namo.” Falcon said.

Men warriors acquire gold in lawn tennis

September 17 was a victorious day for the Eagles as they topped the lawn tennis women’s division. Lady

Bullriders came in 2nd in a deciding game of doubles due to a 1-1 singles match score.

In the first match, Eagle Ayn Magracia won against Bullrider Marielle Suazo, 8-3. Even with the physical constraint, Magracia still managed to walk away with the advantage of putting her team in the lead.

But refusing to give the Eagles an easy gold, Bullrider Golda Paler ruled over Leizel Paña* in a close fight resulting to an 8-4 set score. This served as the turning point of the finals as Paler tied the match at 1-1, forcing a third match of women’s doubles for the championships.

Tension for the Eagles subsequently built up as Bullriders Julia Lacandalo* and Suazo took the lead at the early minutes of the game. The tension then shifted to the Bullriders as Eagles Rina Ubalde and Magracia caught up with them in the fourth set. The match was then concluded with an almost-straight set of 8-2, in favor of the Eagles.

The Eagles admitted their expectations of winning in the finals. “Motivation ra na namo,” team captain Janine Yañez explained. “Lahi ra gyud nang gi-expect nimo dayon natinuod bitaw. Achievement na gyud kaayo,” she added.

Lady Eagles claim tennis cup in thriller

second match. This resulted to a deciding game of doubles where Warriors Ian Nikko Obsid and Lui bested Batao and Torres at an 8-3 win.

“We came prepared...We managed to bring out the best in us for our college,” Lui, Warrior team captain, said. While it was the 2nd spot that the Tigers preyed on, it was the Eagles that grazed the 3rd.

Design by Jose A

lfonso Sendaydiego and Arsenio M

eneses III

IMPACT. Warrior (left) and Eagle (right) bring home the glory with their powerful swings. (V. MAGBANUA)

16

standouts

This Warrior, who led her team in the basketball

championship, reveals that they really worked hard for the victory. She says their brilliant coaches brought out the best in her team. “I think what made us

champions is the friendship that we shared. We care for each other inside and outside the court,” she said. Paguican started playing at age 9. She also plays softball but admits that basketball will always be her first love.C

The two-time Intramurals badminton champion traces his love of the

sport through his father. As early as Grade 4, he began developing the dexterity that eventually brought him to renowned events. He

competed in the 2010 Palarong Pambansa and the CdeO Fiesta Cup, among others. Though he is focused on his studies, Teope still finds time to play the sport as well as table tennis, chess, soccer and basketball.C

Vanessa, the goalkeeper for the Pythons’ Women’s soccer team, started playing soccer when she was 11, and has been playing for seven years ever since. As a 2nd year student in nursing, she is a very

busy person, but she finds time to balance between sports, family, friends and studies. When asked about her key to winning, Vanessa says “Always believe in God, always pray.”C

Advised by his doctor to indulge in the sport to

alleviate his condition, he started swimming in 5th grade. Since then, he hasn’t looked back. Not only has he played in the regional and national level, he also

captained the Aggies swim team for four years in a row. Not only that, Kyle captured gold in all seven events he competed in this year.C

T his 20-year-old captain of the Athletics team takes part in the

sport for his health and fitness. He has been at it for four years with two golds and a bronze for men’s 100m dash and gold and two bronzes for 100m

Relay. Besides that, he also plays softball and basketball for the Knights in this year’s Intramurals.C

Fe is what most expect from an Eagle – spirited, swift and

precise. She has played volleyball since elementary, competed for regional meets in high school, and has been a varsity player in college for two years. The

Eagles’ volleyball team soared to top spot under her leadership last year. Still around next school year, Fe remains a strong force to be reckoned with.C

Nineteen-year-old Kimberly is on her 3rd year both

as a student in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and as a gold medalist in women’s 100-meter dash. She has also earned a gold medal for 400m and 200m dash

during her stint in the previous Intramurals. Aside from athletics, she also played softball, basketball, and soccer this year.C

At 19, Yen has been playing tennis for seven years. A

combination of her bubbly personality and competitive attitude has allowed this New Jersey native to participate in different national and international

tennis competitions. She says she’s contented with the Bullriders placing second in Lawn Tennis (Women). “Basin third time’s the charm. Kay kaduha pa man ko nag dula. Basin pagka-4th year, makadaog na mi.”C

Aside from Taekwondo, this 18-year old sports enthusiast also engages

in badminton, lawn tennis and softball. Her passion for Taekwondo led her to rigorously train since her third year in high school. Now, she is a certified red belter in Taekwondo who

triumphed in the Milo Summer Clinic and All Women’s event. Her winning motivation is to make her hours of training pay off.C

Kathy Paguican

Peter Rey Teope

Vanessa Mae Tangon

Lorens Kyle Recto

Christi Rey Jay Tuzara

Fe Allene Bolinquit

Kimberly Alia

Marielle Suazo

Janine Kaye Alambatang

Women’s Basketball

Men’s Badminton

Women’s Soccer

Men’s Swimming

Men’s Athletics

Women’s Volleyball

Women’s Athletics

Women’s Tennis

Women’s Taekwondo

TheCrusader PROFILES THE 18 ATHLETES THAT BRAVED THE KICKS, SERVES, FLINGS AND THROWS OF THE INTRAMS 2011 GAMES.

WHO WERE THE NOTABLE PLAYERS IN THIS YEAR’S INTRAMURALS?

16

standouts

This Warrior, who led her team in the basketball

championship, reveals that they really worked hard for the victory. She says their brilliant coaches brought out the best in her team. “I think what made us

champions is the friendship that we shared. We care for each other inside and outside the court,” she said. Paguican started playing at age 9. She also plays softball but admits that basketball will always be her first love.C

The two-time Intramurals badminton champion traces his love of the

sport through his father. As early as Grade 4, he began developing the dexterity that eventually brought him to renowned events. He

competed in the 2010 Palarong Pambansa and the CdeO Fiesta Cup, among others. Though he is focused on his studies, Teope still finds time to play the sport as well as table tennis, chess, soccer and basketball.C

Vanessa, the goalkeeper for the Pythons’ Women’s soccer team, started playing soccer when she was 11, and has been playing for seven years ever since. As a 2nd year student in nursing, she is a very

busy person, but she finds time to balance between sports, family, friends and studies. When asked about her key to winning, Vanessa says “Always believe in God, always pray.”C

Advised by his doctor to indulge in the sport to

alleviate his condition, he started swimming in 5th grade. Since then, he hasn’t looked back. Not only has he played in the regional and national level, he also

captained the Aggies swim team for four years in a row. Not only that, Kyle captured gold in all seven events he competed in this year.C

T his 20-year-old captain of the Athletics team takes part in the

sport for his health and fitness. He has been at it for four years with two golds and a bronze for men’s 100m dash and gold and two bronzes for 100m

Relay. Besides that, he also plays softball and basketball for the Knights in this year’s Intramurals.C

Fe is what most expect from an Eagle – spirited, swift and

precise. She has played volleyball since elementary, competed for regional meets in high school, and has been a varsity player in college for two years. The

Eagles’ volleyball team soared to top spot under her leadership last year. Still around next school year, Fe remains a strong force to be reckoned with.C

Nineteen-year-old Kimberly is on her 3rd year both

as a student in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and as a gold medalist in women’s 100-meter dash. She has also earned a gold medal for 400m and 200m dash

during her stint in the previous Intramurals. Aside from athletics, she also played softball, basketball, and soccer this year.C

At 19, Yen has been playing tennis for seven years. A

combination of her bubbly personality and competitive attitude has allowed this New Jersey native to participate in different national and international

tennis competitions. She says she’s contented with the Bullriders placing second in Lawn Tennis (Women). “Basin third time’s the charm. Kay kaduha pa man ko nag dula. Basin pagka-4th year, makadaog na mi.”C

Aside from Taekwondo, this 18-year old sports enthusiast also engages

in badminton, lawn tennis and softball. Her passion for Taekwondo led her to rigorously train since her third year in high school. Now, she is a certified red belter in Taekwondo who

triumphed in the Milo Summer Clinic and All Women’s event. Her winning motivation is to make her hours of training pay off.C

Kathy Paguican

Peter Rey Teope

Vanessa Mae Tangon

lorens Kyle Recto

Christi Rey Jay Tuzara

fe Allene Bolinquit

Kimberly Alia

Marielle Suazo

Janine Kaye Alambatang

Women’s Basketball

Men’s Badminton

Women’s Soccer

Men’s Swimming

Men’s Athletics

Women’s Volleyball

Women’s Athletics

Women’s Tennis

Women’s Taekwondo

TheCrusader profiles the 18 athletes that braved the kicks, serves, flings and throws of the intrams 2011 games.

WHO WERE THE NOTABLE PLAYERS INTHIS YEAR’S INTRAMURALS?

www.thecrusaderpublication.com 17

Getting a black belt as young as 6th grade, Abao has

been competing in contests all over the country, and every Intrams except last year. He won 1st place in Individual Kata during the last competition. Abao started training as early as 4

years old, so it should go without saying that he will stay with the sport that he grew up with. C

Coming from a family of baseball players, Cabayacruz was

discovered by his father’s teammate while he was in 4th grade. Since then, he has played in local and national

tournaments, including Palarong Pambansa and the CHED National Games. In the 2009 CHED National Games, he was adjudged Best Second Baseman. Aside from being the Knights’ ace, he is an all-around field player, having been deployed as shortstop, outfielder, and baseman on separate occasions.C

Quite the standout figure on court is this energetic former

volleyball varsity player who helped the Tigers win gold. Foreshadowing his smooth swerves, killer dives and powerful spikes though, is his long hair and svelte

figure, often leading the audience to think of him as a female athlete. “That doesn’t affect me at all,” Torres laughs. “Okay lang… because the crowd cheers for you but dapat gihapon nimo i-remember na you have to do your responsibilities sa court.”CLui is one of the

Warriors who led the College of

Engineering’s lawn tennis team to an 8-3 victory against the Tigers. Lui, a 5th year Civil Engineering student, has been playing tennis for over fifteen years now. He

was once a member of the University’s lawn tennis varsity and has participated in both local and national tournaments, emerging as a Dunlop champion one time.C

Though he loved the sport since age 10, Marba didn’t expect

table tennis to become his craft. His outstanding skill, however, did not go unnoticed. He was sent to vie in national tourneys like

Palarong Pambansa, Batang Pinoy National Games, and UniGames. He also plays for the University varsity in the COSAA. He’s a jack of all sorts of racket and ball games, and an active member of sports organizations in the region.C

This Python has been playing chess for eleven years

now. Pasimio has joined several competitions and is no stranger to winning, garnering the top spot in the Milo Little Olympics, 1st Atty. Ravanera Cup,

3rd OKK Rapid Chess Tournament, SM Youth Chess Festival, and in the COSAA and PRISAA. “I enjoy the feeling [when] you analyze the situation and try to read your opponents’ moves and eventually outwit them,” he shares.C

With the Warriors being the new kings of the

hardcourt after almost four years of being in the background, they owe a huge part of it to this heavy-duty talented player. This cager lit up the

Intrams with his 3-point prowess that gave the maroon squad the upper hand. He has showed excellence as one of the athletes that brought about the resounding victory of the Warriors.C

He was chosen to be part of the varsity even at

his freshman year, but he gave up his career to offer his prowess to the Eagles. Lascay scored a total of 3 goals in the recent Intramurals including the

lone regular goal for the Eagles in the finals game, and chipping in a crucial penalty shot. The Business Administration junior’s finesse is a result of the many years he spent playing football.C

This Eagle has been smashing shuttlecocks since

4th grade. She joined the Palarong Pambansa, and was a three-time champion in the Milo Little Olympics back in high school. She is passionate about her sport:

“It takes proper coordination between your physical body and your mental control of your faculties, plus your eyes must be very alert,” she enthuses. With this Lady Eagle still in the courts next year, SBM’s crown isn’t going away anytime soon.C

Maico Jovi Abao Louis Kim Cabayacruz

Andre Nikko Torres

Ivan LuiRuben M. Marba

Raphael Pasimio

Prince Allen Lolor Leonell B. Lascay Maria Ellinor Bitanga

Men’s Karate Men’s Softball

Men’s Volleyball

Men’s Lawn Tennis

Men’s Table Tennis

Men’s Chess

Men’s Basketball Men’s Soccer Women’s Badminton

By Nadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi and Ma. Therese D. Agcopra

www.thecrusaderpublication.com 19

Every cheerdance competition is a smorgasbord of visual treats—death-defying, heart-stopping or epic

awesome—you name it they’ve got it. It’s always so confusing where to keep your eyes trained— should you look at the stunts? The flying? The dancing? The cutest member of the performing squad? It’s neither; you look at everything, every movement, every sight, all at the same time, and that’s what keeps students coming back every year. But in case you missed a beat, here’s a look back at the night that ended relatively early with dry throats, unchecked tears and sweat— so much sweat.

ImpedimentaThe Harry Potter music at the beginning

of the Wizards’ routine made all the Potterheads giddy. Everyone expected much from the baby college, and their routine began with numerous cartwheels to start. When they got to the stunts however, things went wrong— one fall, then another, and many improperly executed stunts and nervous fliers. They still amazed us with their throws and their stunts despite the falls, and it would be wrong not to give them credit for their determination and cuteness. Of course we would cut the new college some slack, as there’s so much room for improvementfor this college. Despite their “magic”, the wizards landed at last place with 47.3 points.

Rise of the knightsDitching the fierce black and orange shorts

for preppy skirts and pants, the Knights were perhaps one of the big surprises of the event, amplifying their performance with a succession of stunts at extension level, followed by a 2-2-1 and a hitch pyramid. The six female Knights flyers took to the air with ease and gracefully executed extension level stunts followed by double twist cradles. But the Knights weren’t going to be held back in the dancing department as they showcased a well-synchronized choreography, albeit lacking the same intensity and complexity other groups had.

Even after a seemingly good run, the squad still encountered rough patches during the later portion of their performance when flyers fell on several occasions of the routine. But going back to basics wasn’t enough to push Knights to greater glory as they ended with 57.9 points, ranking 7th.

Warriors lose groundAfter CompStud’s separation from the

College of Engineering, people anxiously waited to see what has become of Cheer Warriors. But from their uniforms to their formations, the performance was a bit reminiscent of last year’s. As expected, the Cheer Warriors delivered the goods early on, flaunting brisk choreography followed up by flyers vaulting to the air to showcase an ensemble of tosses. But soon enough the proud huzzahs turned into

gasps when they struggled to nail one of their pyramids, and eventually with the first set of full extension stunts.

With the pressure to salvage their performance heating up, the Warriors regained momentum with coordinated toe touches, flawless dance moves, and beautifully arranged aerial stunts. But despite the flawless midsection the Cheer Warriors struggled to land a perfect finish on their last pyramid, gaining 65.5 points and catapulting into the 6th spot from last year’s 3rd.

Phoenix in the ashesPerhaps the obvious trend this year is the

drastic color change in uniforms. Instead of wearing their college colors, some opted to go minimalist and go white. Such was the case of some squads, the School of Education Phoenixes included. But the performance of the squad wasn’t as neat as the uniforms they sported. Theirs was beleaguered by a case of falling flyers and slipping dancers. Maintaining balance and composure on pyramids also became a struggle for the Phoenixes, especially on the part where Edge of Glory started playing and their pyramid seemed like it was on the edge of falling apart. But the squad shined in their cutesy dance routines. The Phoenixes, however, did not manage to complete its rise from the ashes and clinched the competition with 67.3 points in 5th place.

WhippedWith all the girls donning matching

haircuts and the whole squad full to the brim with energy that was apparent even before their routine started, it was sort of a no-brainer to everyone that they would land a top spot in the competition. As they performed, the crowd went berserk at seeing the fliers lift their fliers, bodies being thrown here and there and getting caught safely.

Only one glitch was seen in their routine though, and that was when one fall wasn’t caught properly. They shrugged that off and continued to amaze everyone with their stunts and floor dance. The Bullriders finished with a bang, with possibly even more energy than when they started, with cheers reverberating from the nearby Aggies crowd.

After an interview with one of the judges, it seemed that it all came down to the notion that technique and difficulty weighed more than cleanliness of routine. The Bullwhippers only managed to get to 4th place, with a score of 74 points— only a fraction away from getting to 3rd place.

Stripes regainedPutting last year’s bottom spot behind them,

the Tigers Supreme Co-Ed started anew as they astonished everyone with their gripping routine. They had the crowd at first cartwheel, gained tumultuous applause from the crowd as they tossed two high fliers literally into the hands of

the awaiting base fliers, but botched it and ended up missing what would have been one of the detrimental stunts to a place in the competition. This did not faze them though, as they pleased the crowd even more with their lifts and throws until their last moves. They ended magnificently, garnering 74.2 points and pouncing onto 3rd place, overwhelmed and hopeful to gain the top spot in the years to come.

Snakes and BangsA word to describe the Elite Cheer Pythons’

routine: fast. With the girls’ full bangs and blue-and-white ribbons bouncing on their heads as they began to dance, everyone knew these first performers would get a place in the competition. They exhibited impeccable flying, and dismounts, and were the first to wow the crowd with throwing bodies across bodies in their stunts. With their near-perfect routine and pumped up moves, the Pythons garnered 76.8 points and slithered their way to a hard-earned 2nd place.

Forever GoldenAfter two consecutive years of victory,

expectations are on a record-breaking high for the School of Business and Management All Stars. As the squad took the floor clad in uniforms that were surprisingly too white, lacking the proud yellow that was dominant last year, the All Stars started their routine with deliciously crisp dance choreography and synchronized front walkovers and splits putting SBM supporters in complete elation.

The squad did not waste any more time to regale the audience with a perfectly executed double hitch pyramid, followed by a breathtaking combination of scorpion, bow and arrow, and scales at extension level. They followed it up with smooth and snappy dance routines, closing a clean and spot-on performance with one dramatic stance that radiated with triumph. Having no room for disappointment, SBM All Stars claimed their third championship title in a row with an average score of 87 points.

Despite massive bragging rights due to previous championship titles, SBM All Stars were still shaken by their outcome. “Unexpected kaayo,” says Angela Ena Obsina, member of the said squad, “nag-improve pud ang other teams.”

For now one fact remains true and irrefutable: the Eagles continue to soar to farther and greater heights. There doesn’t seem to be an end to this marvelous string of success.

***Surely everyone noticed that cheerleaders

they witnessed that night weren’t all the pom-pom waving, chant-screaming people TV has let us get used to seeing. They redefined stereotypes this year, showing that the perfect body, the most flawless face or the tallest stature were not necessary to cheer; what was important was the passionate heart of a champion – something not lacking in every XU cheerleader.C

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batac. Photo by Francis Ryan Avellana

By Ma. Rosetti G. Villamor

20

“Sugod-na!-Sugod-na!”It was an impatient crowd that chanted

for the Dancesport Competition to begin, that evening of September 20 at the University Gym. The hosts acquiesced to the people’s building excitement, and after the necessary (albeit dragging) explanation of the mechanics, the Dancesport 2011 officially kicked off.

The contestants owned the floor in the Latin Category, and later, the Modern Standard. By the time the dance floor started heating up, people had placed bets on their favorite pairs. Two favorites, in particular, were about to stand out that night as champions: Tunieve Ruaya and Karissa Grace Falcon from the Tigers and Jose Carlou Odchigue and Donna Fe Dahilan from the Bullriders.

Latin: Seduction in black and pinkAfter an exciting elimination round, four

pairs were left standing on the dance floor. All pairs carried out their own dance routines for cha-cha, rumba and jive.

Pair 002 Ruaya and Falcon, wearing black and pink themed outfits, proved to be the highlight of their category with their sassy dance moves. Falcon’s ability to extend her legs farther than any woman on the dance floor, as well as Ruaya’s jiggling power toward the end of their jive routine, made them a crowd favorite.

“Rumba is our favorite,” enthused Pair 002, and viewers would have to agree. Falcon used her tantalizing eyes to her advantage, enthralling the crowds, as well as the judges. Their jive performance also made a lasting impression as Falcon fluttered her fingers at the audience, coupled with her playful grin and Ruaya’s signature jiggling.

If one remembers, the Tigers placed 3rd after a misstep on their last year’s pair’s final routine, but for the Dancesport 2011, the Latin category was finally theirs for the taking. Pair 001 of the Warriors took 2nd place while Pair 003 of the Bullriders placed 3rd due to a flop at the last part of their cha-cha.

Modern Standard: Back in redOdchigue and Dahilan (Pair 007) arrived on

the dance floor and captured the people’s hearts with their slow waltz, tango and foxtrot routines. Dahilan’s dreamy smile, especially during the slow waltz, took everyone’s breath away, and Odchigue’s confident leads—making his partner’s red dress sway with grace—were a combination fit for champions.

“Our goal was to dance like a swan,” says Odchigue, and indeed their movements were laced with a certain grace. The same Bullriders pair grabbed 1st place in last year’s Latin category,

and although they experienced a little difficulty adjusting to the slow pace of the Modern Standard, they continued to dominate the category.

Pair 006 of the Phoenixes, sporting peach with white highlights, earned 2nd place for the Modern Standard whereas Pair 009 of the Eagles, looking like a butler guiding a princess in bold pink, managed 3rd place.

* * *“And the winners are….”Killer heels ceased to be a concern when

the winners were announced, as contestants jumped up and down in a failure to contain their excitement. In a chick-flick-esque moment, Falcon jumped into Ruaya’s arms, in gleeful celebration of the Tigers’ victory following last year’s shortcoming.

Odchigue and Dahilan were bombarded with cameras wanting to take their pictures along their fellow competitors for winning yet another category for Aggies.

The crowd accepted the decision with cheers, chants and applause. Dancesport 2011 witnessed two comebacks that deserve their current titles. Hopefully next year’s competition would be just as exciting – minus the dragging parts.C

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Admit it.You knew that this year’s Intramurals

affair was going to be different when you thought the theme sounded like it was taken straight out of a Lady Gaga song. Whether or not music from the pop goddess of the weird and wonderful did serve as an inspiration—well, it doesn’t matter. You had to notice that—although the XU Intramurals 2011 wasn’t decked in a pair of heel-less armadillos and a bacon dress—this was definitely a fresh break in the runs of our normal, sports-related drama.

That’s not all. For starters, the air was thick with sportive festivity weeks before Intramurals started, due in no small part to the Azkals dropping by the XU soccerfield. (Probably to check out how the grass feels under their glorious Fil-am feet, and suddenly, sweaty old gym socks never seemed sexier.) Needless to say, this was a defining moment for all football fangirls out there. Remember that day on the soccerfield? It was chaotic. You’d have thought the Younghusbands were each selling a kidney.

And of course, they put up that tarpaulin announcing the impending Intramurals. “On The Edge of Glory,” the tarp said. “We Fight as One.” You might have ran past it on your way to class a couple of weeks back, or—heck, you might not even have noticed it until recently—hanging right next to the huge Engineering tarpaulin congratulating the warriors on their overall championship. (Insert fried chicken joke here.)

Okay. Of course you want to hear about it. So the Eagles didn’t fly too high this time around, and I’m betting you’ve heard one too many bad “fried eagle” jokes by now. (I recently heard this really good quip about how a couple of angry birds got marooned this year. Get it?) Anyway, it’s no surprise that much ado is being made over the new color of this year’s Intrams magazine cover.

It’s maroon, genius. Yeah, check again.Congratulations to the Engineering Warriors

for breaking a six-year streak. People who are writing this victory off are probably sadly misinformed Eagles, because seriously, the Intramurals issue has been yellow for that long—I think I go colorblind

every time September rolls around.But what did the Warriors

have this year that they didn’t before? Easy peasy. Dedication, hard work, and a whole lot of Gatorade team spirit. Kudos. You guys rock. It doesn’t even matter that your video failed to go off properly during the Opening Ceremonies—anyway none of our university affairs are complete without the familiar, well-loved technical difficulty or two.

Personally I thought the SBM Eagles were great, too, although they didn’t bag the overall gold this year. They still came in at second place, which still counts for something. Still, it’s important to look back and think: what did these guys have this year that they didn’t before? Smaller Gatorade bottles? A hundred extra points? An actual torch during the opening ceremony? Or was the real problem—the drums of doom?

Apparently these drums were used to boost the Eagles’ spirits during a couple of games over the week. Personally, I think Lady Gaga bugged its lucky charm, but you can’t help noticing that the men’s volleyball, and men and women’s basketball teams suffered greatly under the will of the epic drums of doom. (These drums were also played during the COSAA basketball semis on September 21, with XU up against Capitol University. I’ll give you three guesses as to who won that stint.)

If you still don’t believe me, no one played those drums for SBM during the cheerdance competition, and they fabulously kicked butt that night.

All I’m saying is: you can give those drums to China in the ongoing struggle over Spratlys (just to save our politicians time), or just lose the whole bongo jungle feel. Our athletes have enough to think about without wondering if Tarzan had arrived in the building.

So it was the drums—definitely the drums that held the Eagles to the edge of glory, while the Warriors went right ahead and jumped off. Maybe even the iPad torch simulation during the opening that didn’t fool anybody. (They might as well have held a well-drawn picture of a torch, but no, the

image on the pink-encased iPad had to do the trick.) In any case, this year’s Intrams ended with the

Warriors doing a victory dance, Eagles who are all the more determined to reclaim their glory next year, and hey, maybe even a couple of angry birds. Truth is, there will always be haters who are willing to troll whoever wins and whoever loses; it’s an underrated art form that pays even less than scraping barnacles off the bottom of a ship.

I don’t need to tell you that next year’s Intramurals is going to be epic. The Warriors could start another long winning streak. The Eagles have nowhere to fly but upward. The Azkals could come back and offer to sell their spleens as keychain souvenirs. Heck—maybe another college will surprise us with the championship.

***We don’t know. There’s nothing for it but to wait

and see. However, a word to the wise for next year’s Intrams theme: Pick a better Lady Gaga song.C

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