Tarlac State University spiced up the gymnasium earlier this morning (April 17) as the week-long in-person celebration of the Intramurals 2023 commenced two years after the COVID-19 outbreak.
The intramurals, themed "META: The New Era," is participated by the nine colleges and the Laboratory School.
“Meta comes from the peak prefects and proposition META, which means after or beyond. This means letting us go further and exceed our capabilities and abilities," TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco said as he formally opened the ceremony.
"The greatest service or support that you can give to your respective colleges is not only your abilities and capabilities but most of all your availability that you are here with us supporting your respective players and your colleges,” he added.
The highlight of the opening program is the first-ever bench yell competition, a 4-7-minute performance accompanied by percussion instruments with around 50-75 members.
Aside from the bench yell, the opening ceremony featured the traditional mascot competition per college and the Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2023 sportswear competition.
Moreover, the TSU Chorale set the mood with their rendition of "Bagani," along with performances from the university's Arnis Team, Performing Arts Dance Troupe, and Hip-hop Dance Group, highlighting their skills and talent.
Various sports activities were conducted starting this afternoon as the entire TSU community is eager to find out which college will bring home the overall championship trophy this year.
Pres. Velasco also emphasized the importance of sports activities for the students' overall growth and well-rounded college life journey.
“Our program’s goal is to offer enjoyable, secure, and structured player opportunities that foster social, mental, and physical growth,” he said.
This was seconded by Dr. Ligaya Gina S. Salangsang, TSU's Sports Development and Management Head, as she delivered her short message and reminders for the athletes to jumpstart the competitions.
“Just a friendly reminder for the players... Everyone who steps onto the field is ready and willing to put up a good fight against opposing colleges. Failure is inevitable, so we must accept it with humility. If we give it all, our losing won’t make us feel bad, even though it can wound our pride or ego. I urge you all to keep in mind that overcoming obstacles and facing adversities serve as the sole way to learn something significant," Dr. Salangsang said.
"We occasionally have bad luck, and, at other times, victory is on our side. In this case, we are very appreciative whether we win or lose. But at the end of the day, we must remember how to respect, persevere, and embrace the moment and value the experiences,” she added.
Winners of the mascot and bench yell competitions will be awarded during the closing ceremony on April 20 (Saturday).
Meanwhile, the awards for the sportswear competition will be handed over on the Mr. and Ms. Intrams coronation night also on April 20. (madc/jlmm-OPA)
Photos by Franc Lewis R. Juanatas, David Ande Gene P. Pabon
