THE NCAA and GMA 7 proved to be perfect partners in the first of their five-year pact in the challenging 96th season.
In the words of GMA Network chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon, they rose stronger despite an unseen but vicious enemy.
“Once again, the NCAA has made history by becoming the first collegiate athletic league in the Philippines to safely hold a sports tournament in the time of pandemic,” Gozon said.
“Keeping the spirit of sportsmanship alive during these trying times is a necessary message that promotes unity and hope. That when we all come together, we can all rise stronger,” he added.
Taekwondo and chess were both held online, while alumni from all 10 member-schools participated in All-Star Skills competitions for both basketball and volleyball.
Taekwondo saw College of Saint Benilde dominate the women’s and men’s speed kicking events and San Beda top the juniors’ side. San Beda ruled the seniors’ poomsae, while Emilio Aguinaldo College swept the juniors competition.
Lyceum won seniors’ chess courtesy of Neymark Digno, while Letran turned to FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz to emerge victorious in the juniors’ side.
Former Lady Knight spiker Mikaela Lopez had a successful comeback by copping the volleyball skills challenge plum, while Lyceum’s Kim Cinco took the basketball skills challenge trophy.
The country’s oldest collegiate league pushed through this season with virtual and skills events, with the basketball and volleyball tournaments getting cancelled.
