Tagum, Iligan post wins

THE Tagum City National High School (TCNHS) and Iligan City National High School (ICNHS) posted wins at the start of the 10th Shakey's Girls Volleyball League Mindanao Leg at the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) Bajada Gym yesterday.

TCNHS beat Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School (PNJKIS), 25-14, 25-7, in their bracket A match.

TCNHS head coach Felannie Caasi, in an interview with Sun.Star Davao Super Balita, said they did not expect to win since it's their first stint in the event.

"Amo gyud ni gi-ampo nga makadaug sa first game aron mas ma-inspire ang mga bata especially nga kusog ang mga kalaban (We really prayed to win the first game so the kids will be inspired to play against strong and tough teams)," Caasi said.

She also said they expect an uphill battle against defending champion Davao City National High School that also belonged to their bracket.
ICNHS, meanwhile, spanked host team UIC, 25-16, 25-15, in bracket B.
General Santos City National High School (GSCNHS) turned back Cor Jesu College of Digos (CJCD), 25-19, 25-22, in another bracket A clash.
Games were still being played as of presstime.

Metro Sports vice president for operations Johanz Danyz Buenvenida, during the coaches' briefing held at Shakey's Gaisano Mall of Davao branch, said the airfare, hotel accommodation, food and uniform expenses will be covered for the team that will represent Mindanao in the Tournament of Champions slated on January 22 to 26 in Manila.

"We encourage the head coach of the champion team to hold a two-week tryout to pick the best players that will represent Mindanao in the national finals. This will raise the competitiveness of the national finals," Buenvenida said.

The tournament is officiated by Balibolista de Dabaw under president Eric Lim.