Davao Oriental has raised the curtain on its most impressive Provincial Athletic Meet yet, setting the stage for an unparalleled experience for young athletes across the province.
For the first time ever, the event unfolds within the premier sporting venue of the Davao Oriental State University, showcasing state-of-the-art facilities. This year’s highly anticipated Provincial Athletic Meet pledges to be a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and sportsmanship unlike any other.
Governor Niño Uy, a spirited advocate for youth sports, expressed during the grand opening ceremony on Sunday evening, March 3, 2024, “Hosting this grand event in this magnificent sports facility with a meticulously planned grand opening is a testament to our commitment, together with the Department of Education and all stakeholders, to prioritize sports development in Davao Oriental.” His words resonated with thunderous applause from the assembled crowd at the DOrSU oval.
Governor Uy further elaborated, “Our collaboration with DepEd officials and LGU officials underscores our dedication to ensuring that our young athletes have access to the best sporting experiences within our remarkable facilities, particularly here at DORSU.”
Choosing to hold the event at DORSU proves both timely and fitting, particularly as municipalities continue to grapple with the aftermath of the recent disaster that befell the province. By doing so, the province ensures that young athletes receive the optimal experience without imposing undue burdens on any particular host municipality.
Drawing from his own athletic journey, Governor Uy shared how sports had shaped his character and professional trajectory, instilling discipline and resilience that have defined his tenure as a public servant. He emphasized the broader significance of sports, highlighting its role in fostering unity, discipline, and leadership among the youth.
“As a youth leader, I witnessed firsthand the incredible impact that sports can have on our communities. I saw how it brought people together, bridging divides and fostering a sense of belonging and unity. I saw how it empowered young minds, instilling in them the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership that would guide them throughout their lives,” he added.
“And now as a public servant, I stand committed to ensuring that every child in Davao Oriental has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of sports. Because I believe that sports is not just about winning medals or trophies – it’s about building character, instilling confidence, and unlocking the potential within each and every one of us.”
Guest Speaker Emmanuel Rene Ayo, the esteemed Sports Director of the Lyceum of the Philippines Davao, echoed Governor Uy’s sentiments, underscoring the transformative power of sportsmanship in shaping character and fostering camaraderie among athletes. He urged coaches to prioritize the holistic well-being of their athletes, emphasizing mental health and emotional resilience alongside physical prowess.
Moreover, Ayo directed his words toward the coaches, recognizing their pivotal role as mentors and guardians of their athletes’ holistic well-being. Beyond honing physical prowess and technical skills, he urged coaches to prioritize the mental health and emotional resilience of their charges. With empathy and understanding, coaches can create safe and supportive environments where athletes feel empowered to confront challenges and flourish both on and off the field.
PROVINCIAL ATHLETIC MEET 2024
The Provincial Athletic Meet 2024 brings together approximately 3,000 delegates, coaches, and officials from ten municipalities, organized into five athletic units, to compete across 23 sporting events.
DOrSU will not only serve as the venue but also as the billeting quarters for delegates, with university students transitioning to modular classes to accommodate the five-day event from March 2-6, 2024.
The grand opening ceremony witnessed the presence of local officials and stakeholders, all of whom expressed unwavering support for Davao Oriental’s sporting initiatives.
As the competitions commence, athletes from across Davao Oriental are gearing up to showcase their talents, guided by the principles of sportsmanship and fair play. The Provincial Athletic Meet promises to leave an indelible mark on participants and spectators alike, symbolizing a new era of sporting excellence and passion in Davao Oriental’s history. By PIO | Photos by JB Rain
