The recent episode of ASCOT ‘To! Todo-todo delved on the world of sports and athletics. The show featured discussion with ASCOT Sports Director Conrad Mendizabal and winning coaches, Sir Farag-ey A. Pais, Sir Clyde Jerome Cunanan (Table Tennis), Mr. Wilbert Julio (Baseball/Softball), Mr. June Espinosa (Taekwondo). They talked about the preparation and experiences of ASCOT’s athletes at the recently concluded SCUAA III Olympics 2024 held in Tarlac.

They shared their insights on the rigorous preparations undertaken by the athletes and the coaching staff. Key points included intensive training and mental conditioning. Despite facing challenges such as limited training time, facilities, and funding concerns, the coaches emphasized the dedication and support from the ASCOT community and the sacrifices made to overcome these obstacles.

The coaches also discussed their experiences before and during the SCUAA Olympics held in Tarlac. They highlighted the importance of dedication, love for the sport, and willingness to make sacrifices. A coach’s role is crucial as they closely monitor the athletes’ performance and intervene when necessary to guide and improve their gameplay. Mr. Mendizabal emphasized the good qualities of an athletes “Mahalaga na may husay ng taglay ang manlalaro. Bukod dito, importante na may disiplina at puso sa paglalaro” he said. While Coach Par shared his dreams and aspirations for an ASCOT athlete “Gusto ko para sa ating mga manlalaro dito sa ASCOT ayhindi lamang dito sa atin maglaro. Kailangan nilang lumabas, maglaro sa ibang lugar, mag-excel, mangarap at makapag-uwi ng gintong medalya” he said.

The program also featured two Arnis athletes, Mark Loren Pascua and Arthur Jay Aquino, who won gold medals. They shared their experiences and challenges faced during the SCUAA Olympics. Additionally, they delivered message to ASCOT students and aspiring young athletes, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination. “Iyong makasungkit ng unang ginto at pilak na medalya para sa paaralan ay napakalaking karalangan na po para sa akin. Next year kahit ang laking pressure I will try my best to push myself na sana madagdagan ko pa ‘yung maiuwi kong medalya para sa paaralan” Mr. Aqunio said. While Mr. Pascua said “As a team, laban lang! Matindiing pressure na bigating schools ‘yung mga kalaban! Pero sabi ko po sa sarili ko, kung kaya ng ka-team ko kaya ko rin para sa team.”

The coaches shared advice with the ASCOT athletes. They stressed the importance of discipline, obedience, and playing with heart and passion. Coach Clyde Cunanan urged the athletes to keep pursuing what they love “Continue doing what you love, playing what you love and let ASCOT help and guide you sa gusto ninyong laruan at puntahan” he said. While, Coach Wilbert emphasized the importance of trusting the process “Kung mahal nila ‘yung laro, huwag kayong tumigil mangarap. Always trust the process, magpalakas at mag-training ng maayos” he said. Lastly Coach June highlighted the importance of being grateful “Kung ano ang kailangan ng bata ibigay natin at kung ano man ang maibigay ng bata ay pasalamatan natin” he said.
Before the program ended, the coaches thanked the people and private institutions that helped the athletes of ASCOT. They also thanked the officials of ASCOT, led by President Renato G. Reyes, for their strong support of the athletes, coaches, and staff. They also thanked Mayor Ariel De Jesus of Municipality of San Luis and Mayor Rhett Angara of Baler. Most of all, they expressed their gratitude to Congressman Rommel T. Angara for providing uniforms and his wholehearted support to ASCOT during the recent SCUAA III Olympics.

This episode of ASCOT ‘To! Todo-todo was a testament to the hard work, commitment, and spirit of ASCOT’s athletes and coaches. It highlighted the challenges they face and the triumphs they achieve, serving as an inspiration for the entire ASCOT community.

If you missed the live program, don’t worry! You can catch up on ASCOT’s official Facebook page.
Remember, ASCOT ‘To! airs every other Thursday, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. on 92.1RTV Baler.