SAN Beda College Alabang’s women athletes brought pride from the South at the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) opening ceremony last Jan. 21 at St. Cecilia Hall in St. Scholastica’s College (SSC), the host school for Season 53.

All 15 participating teams were in high spirits as they proudly represented their respective institutions for the coveted league with the theme, “Rise… Fly… Soar High!” SBCA’s homegrown athletes’ spirits did not falter as they boldly wore red jerseys when they came up on stage for a photo-op. 

The SSC President, Sr. Christine Pinto, OSB, gave a prominent opening remark in which she stated the institution’s mission is to “provide a holistic formation to our students; one that would mold them intellectually, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.” Sr. Pinto highlighted, in particular, giving women equal opportunities “to hone their gifts, talents, and skills in the field of sports.” Moreover, she shared the reason for St. Cecilia Hall being the venue for this season’s opening ceremony: “resiliency, practicality, and creativity.” 

Michelle Cobb, SSC alumna and current setter of Akari Power Chargers, was Season 53’s inspirational speaker. In her speech, she emphasized working beyond one’s weakness, sharing her woes with her height, 5 feet 4. “We all know volleyball is a game of height,” she said. She narrated her thoughts regarding this and imparted on the players to “work with what you have” and focus on the things they could control, such as training. Cobb also indicated three points: hard work, commitment, and dedication. 

The league also presented the awards from the last season during the ceremony. Furthermore, the event was graced with performances from SSC’s School of Music’s Continuing Dance Education Program, Sularaya Dance Troupe, which led the lighting of the ceremonial torch, and P-Pop group KAIA,  whose member Sophia is an SSC alumna. 

With the return of face-to-face games in the WNCAA, the Bedan women athletes will undoubtedly rise, fly, and soar high in Season 53. To know more about them, check out the official schedule for our teams’ games on the WNCAA website and The Bedan Herald’s official social media sites.