The 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sportsfest opened on December 16 with a burst of energy and competition, showcasing the grit and determination of athletes across Western Visayas. Central Philippines State University (CPSU) dominated the 3×3 basketball, clinching gold after a nail-biting match against Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), whose valiant efforts earned them silver.
“We practiced hard for this, and seeing our efforts pay off is truly fulfilling,” shared CPSU’s team captain, echoing sentiments of unity and perseverance emphasized by their coach.
Meanwhile, the host school, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), celebrated a historic victory as Justine Franco secured their first gold medal in the men’s high jump. This feat electrified the crowd and filled his school with pride.
The opening day set the tone for an exhilarating week, with thrilling matchups across sports disciplines. In men’s basketball, NISU leads with two early wins, while West Visayas State University (WVSU), ISUFST, and NISU are locked in fierce competition in the women’s division. Baseball, softball, volleyball, and football saw powerhouse teams like WVSU, CHMSU, ISAT U, and GSU emerge as early leaders. In contrast, beach volleyball and sepak takraw featured standout performances from SUNN, ISAT U, and UA. Through the common language of athletics, athletes, and fans broke down borders and forged friendships as they honored the spirit of sportsmanship amid the tremendous action.
The promise of more intense fights and motivational moments reverberated throughout the venues as the sun fell on an incredible first day. The cornerstone values of RSCUAA 2024 are peace, inclusivity, and well-being. Students from 13 state universities and colleges brought this spirit into their weekly sports meet for good luck. Whatever the race in any event, there has never been an athletics meeting where so many new faces – unassuming in bearing but filled with hope and promise – are competing for honors of all colors.
With a mix of raw talent and dedication, peers armed with nothing more than camaraderie will see us through the initial stages of this struggle week. The games are as much about grit as they are about glory. The remaining 3 days are full of promise, and every event will be thrilling as athletes strategically strive for brilliance in each endeavor. Values of sportsmanship are magnified, and glory looms larger with every passing day. RSCUAA 2024 is an unforgettable gala in a lofty spirit and a mighty physical contest.
This year’s RSCUAA is especially significant for the 13 participating universities, as it marks the first time the event is being held at ISUFST. It also has sentimental importance for the Negros Occidental schools, as it will be the last RSCUAA for them following the passing of the Negros Island Region Act. The stakes are high as each school competes not only for medals but for the pride of their institution and the region.| (Photo files from RSCUAA PR Committee/Text by Russel Yamit and Lea Grace Edong)
