Written by: KZ Angagka, Sozita-mae Grace Lucio, and Mylene Wakit
The SIT 2025 Sportsfest, held on March 12, 2025, at the UB Cardinal Gymnasium from 8 AM to 6 PM, marks a significant event in our campus calendar, bringing together students, faculty, and staff in a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and community spirit. This highly anticipated event showcases the dedication and hard work of athletes who have spent weeks preparing for this moment.
The Sportsfest is not just about competition; it is an opportunity to highlight the talent and determination within our institution. From intense basketball games to fast-paced track races and strategic tech race challenges, each event promises to be a display of excellence.
More than victories and losses, the Sportsfest fosters camaraderie, creating lasting memories and inspiring everyone to pursue greatness together. Let the games begin, as we celebrate the spirit of unity and sportsmanship at SIT 2025.
The morning program began with a blast as the winners of last years search for the next Mr. And Ms. SIT, which was held during the SIT DAY and NIGHT event, was invited to represent the teams as the muse and escorts and to lead the parade with banners and great fits, marching together with some of the SIT students and the whole of the SIT faculty.
After a simple greeting and crowd engagement led by one of the Master of Ceremony, the event finally kicked off for the parade. First to enter were the bashful and appealing representatives from the BLUE CYBORGS, led by Mr. Nikos Talusig and Ms. Bianca Silo. Next to enter the gymnasium are the GRAY TITANS escorted by dashing Mr. Kenneth De Guzman and charming Ms. Erika Latawan. Third to enter were the RED SENTINELS with the amusing Mr. Rick Villanueva and energetic Ms. Bheldandy Teofilo as they brought in powerful cheers that led each participant inside the gym to roar and applause. Last but not least were the BLACK PHANTOMS parading together with the endearing Mr. Christian Fernandez and the alluring Ms. Jasmine Laureano.
With everyone in line at the playing court inside the gymnasium, Emcee Ms. KZ Angagka, together with the muses and escorts, directed a simple stretching activity as a way to energize the students before proceeding to their assigned areas located at the gymnasium bleachers. Ms. KZ surprised the crowd as she invited her partner back to the stage, who also happens to be one of the muses that led the parade: Ms. Bheldandy. Together they invited the School of Information Technology’s beloved dean, Dr. Ellen Hallover, to make a speech for the opening remarks.
The hosts introduced themselves and engaged in a bit of casual conversation as the students quickly found their seats in the bleachers. Once everyone was settled, the competition kicked off with the first events: balloon popping and tug of war. These games served as a warm-up, building excitement and energy as the four teams faced off in intense, competitive battles. The Red Sentinels took an early lead, securing a victory in the balloon popping contest with their quick thinking and sharp reflexes. Meanwhile, the Black Phantoms showcased their strength and teamwork, claiming the win in the tug of war, pulling with determination and unity. These games served as a warm-up, building excitement and energy as the four teams faced off in intense, competitive battles. The following game featured a thrilling showdown between the Blue Cyborgs and Red Sentinels in a fast-paced match of “Touch the Body,” highlighting their speed and teamwork. After an intense contest, the Red Sentinels triumphed, demonstrating their sharp reflexes and tactical coordination. In the decisive chess match, the Black Phantoms and Red Sentinels clashed in a high-stakes, strategic contest for the win. With a series of well-thought-out moves and tense moments, the Black Phantoms ultimately claimed victory, thanks to their precise tactics and unwavering focus.
The afternoon was packed with excitement as the semi-finals of the basketball tournament took place, featuring a heated match between Team Sentinels (Red) and Team Titans (Grey). While the game was in full swing, the E-Sports tournament kicked off in F Building Hall, where Mobile Legends players prepared for the competition.
The Mobile Legends tournament was streamed live on Facebook and displayed on LED screens around the venue, ensuring that both physical and virtual game enthusiasts could stay engaged. Meanwhile, other competitive gaming events, including Tekken and Call of Duty, were also underway, drawing in students eager to showcase their skills in online gaming.
With multiple events happening simultaneously, students found themselves divided on where to focus their attention. The thrilling basketball and volleyball matches coinciding with the Mobile Legends tournament created an electric atmosphere, yet the energy and enthusiasm remained high. Despite the overwhelming choices, students continued to cheer for their teams, fully embracing the competitive spirit of the event.
During the basketball and volleyball games, it was evident that some players possessed exceptional skills in their respective sports. It was unfortunate that they hadn’t showcased their talents in the official University Intramurals, but this was understandable due to schedule conflicts or personal reasons.
This event highlights the importance of making it an annual tradition, especially since SIT students are not typically known for participating in physical activities. It serves as a great opportunity to engage students, foster teamwork, and promote a more active lifestyle. The Student Body truly outdid themselves with this initiative, and it is hoped that even more students—and perhaps even faculty—will take part in the future.
