After a captivating display of athleticism, the NISU Blue Marlins Sepak Takraw Women's Team snagged the bronze medal at the Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) 2024 Sports Festival and Conference, held at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Main Campus on December 17.

 

Despite facing the challenge of limited training time, the team’s performance exceeded expectations, as they tied for third place with the University of Antique.

 

Chamel Perez, Jamaica Villar, Mary Joy Demegillo, Cyren Cobrador, and Erika Basa delivered dynamic performances that were instrumental in the Blue Marlins' strong showing and bronze-medal achievement.

 

In an interview, Coach Gofel Rey V. Lopez praised the athletes for their unwavering commitment and resilience, recognizing their determination to perform at their best despite inadequate preparation.

 

"First of all, I would like to commend the performance of our athletes because they really gave their all. In sports, there are wins and losses, but we saw that they gave everything. Unfortunately, the timing just wasn’t in our favor,” Lopez said.

 

Looking ahead, Lopez stressed the importance of preparation and dedication, expressing confidence that with the right commitment, the team will bring home the gold in future tournaments.

 

"Last time, we took home bronze at the RSCUAA, and this time, we earned it again. But next year, we will surpass this—we’re aiming for silver, or even better, gold,” Lopez added.

 

Meanwhile, the State University of Northern Negros (SUNN) Rays clinched the silver medal, while West Visayas State University (WVSU) Marals claimed gold in the Sepak Takraw Women's Division.

 

With a bronze medal as their foundation and Coach Lopez’s passion to restore NISU’s gold medal legacy, the Blue Marlins Sepak Takraw Women's Team focuses on overcoming all obstacles with discipline and determination, aiming for even greater results in future competitions.