THE National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) South Season 25 concluded in a grand closing ceremony held at the Emilio Aguinaldo Colleges-Cavite (EACC) Gymnasium on Oct. 11, where De La Salle-Lipa (DLSL), the Green Stallions, was crowned the overall champion. EAC, serving as first-time host, officially handed over the hosting flag to Trace College, who will take the reins for Season 26.

Excellence Triumphs

     The closing ceremony began with an opening remark from Dr. Jose Paolo E. Campos, the President of EAC, who expressed, “We cannot really minimize the importance of these events for our students. It allows them to challenge themselves to develop certain abilities they have which, by the way, complement their academics.” He believes there is an interplay between the brain and the body, such as motor control, which bears on an individual’s intellectual faculties and vice versa.

     Dr. Campos also urged schools to continue promoting events such as the NCAA despite the challenges of sustaining them to ensure students receive great opportunities. He also announced that Trace Colleges will host NCAA South Season 26, set to begin in May 2025, returning the sporting event to its regular schedule.

The Red Lions’ Roar

     SBCA’s Red Lions exhibited a commendable athletic prowess across both junior and senior divisions, embodying what it truly means to be a Bedan. In the junior division, the Red Lions claimed third place in Boys’ Swimming and Girls’ Futsal, while the Boys’ and Girl’s Chess teams secured second place.

     In the senior division, the Women’s teams also succeeded, earning third place in Swimming and Futsal. The Men’s Swimming team clinched second place, while the Red Lions took home the first-place title in the Poomsae competition.

Another Prologue

     Atty. Paulo E. Compus Jr., the Policy Board President of NCAA South Season 25 and EAC's Corporate Secretary and Treasurer, presided over the closing ceremony. He reflected on the hurdles they encountered this season, particularly in Football, which tested their flexibility and responsiveness. “Let us carry forward the lessons learned, and the spirits kindled during the season,” he said.

     With enthusiasm, Atty. Compus Jr. officially handed over the hosting torch to Trace Colleges, the newest member of the NCAA South. “Cheers to the future, to Trace College, and another exhilarating chapter in the legacy of the NCAA South,” he said. Trace Colleges accepted the honor eagerly, affirming, “We are privileged to be part of the NCAA South family.”

     NCAA South Season 25 set the standard for the outstanding endeavors of Season 26 by declaring a legacy of excellence and camaraderie through the noble commitment to athletics.

     The upcoming season holds great promise for the Red Lions, as the Bedan community will eagerly anticipate their performance following their impressive achievements this season. They are prepared to dominate the competition and uphold their legacy in NCAA South Season 26 with dedication, skills, and teamwork.