Foundation University Alumni Relations Office organized the first FU Alumni Football Open Play on July 14, 2024 at the FU Ball Field, where former and current football varsity members gathered for a day of games and fellowship.
The day commenced with conversations as old friends and teammates reunited on the field, reminiscing about past victories and sharing stories of their journeys after their graduation. Eiichi Ezaki, alumni relations staff, said that the event aimed not only to promote healthy competition, but also to foster a strong sense of community among former and current varsity players.
Seven teams competed from the men’s category—Team Roniel, Team Daniel, Team Kyle, Team Andy, Team Kian, Team FPA, and Team Bacong, and 4 teams in the women’s category—Team Yvonne, Team Din, Team Ching, and Team Chong. The teams competed fiercely throughout the day in a series of football matches combining their skills tinged with nostalgia.
Everyone displayed amazing talent and teamwork, and Team Andy emerged victorious with an impressive record of 5 wins and 1 draw. The team was comprised of James Rubie Rubio, John Gerson Rubio, Morris John Tulang, Michael Denson Tulang, Clint Libradilla, Brian Valencia, Wesley Marius Uy Benjijo, Reden Lopez, Ronald Jethro Grio, Rolando Sumaylo III, and Cleo Ed Lumaya.
Reflecting on the event, some participants shared their experiences:
Alfonz Jassek Artus: “I had an awesome experience where I learned a lot from my seniors, especially regarding strategies and techniques to help boost my skills. With their advice, as a current player of the FPA team, I can share these insights with my teammates to improve our teamwork in future games.”
Arlene Aseñas: “Playing football with my seniors was a blast. As a current player for the FPA futsal team, it was a privilege to learn from former varsity players and deepen my understanding of the game. Their guidance will surely help me grow both individually and as part of the team.”
Roniel Christ Ivan Cañete: “The Alumni Football Open Play was a great start to a rainy Sunday. The event was well-organized and a big success. Reuniting with fellow alumni, seeing familiar faces again and playing with them made it a day filled with laughter even during matches. A big thanks to FU Alumni Office for arranging this event, and I hope there will be more”
Michael Denson Tulang: “I had an amazing experience during the alumni event. I feel a sense of nostalgia. One of the highlights was reconnecting with old teammates, reliving our past experiences. The event was well organized, thanks to Coach Alex, Coach Eiichi and the entire crew who supported it. I really had fun playing.”
As the competition ended, it was also a renewal of bonds that were forged through a shared love for football.