THE 44th season of the PBA opened last Sunday at the Philippine Arena. In an unprecedented move, the PBA started the season by handing out the individual awards for the season that just concluded. Here is a rundown of the major awardees:
MVP: Junemar Fajardo-San Miguel Beermen
Rookie of the Year: Jason Perkin-Phoenix Fuelmasters
Most Improved Player: Scottie Thompson- Barangay Ginebra San Miguel
Sportsmanship Award: Gabe Norwood-Rain or Shine Elastopainters
Interestingly, Junemar copped his 5th consecutive MVP award setting a new PBA record for most MVP awards and most consecutive awards won. He is the new barometer of the PBA. What is very admirable about this fellow is how he remains humble even with five MVP plums under his name already. Reading through the transcipts of his interview, he never fails to recognize those before him, legends like Alvin Patrimonio and current PSC Commissioner El Presidente, Ramon Fernandez and certainly his parents, who, he said, has worked for him. It is also such a humble gesture when he asked his parents to join him on stage when he received the award.
He is hard work and humility personified. This is an endearing attitude that most of us forget. Most work hard and when they get to the top, they lose all sense of humility. Or when they reach the top, they start to become complacent and settle.
Hardwork and humility must always go hand in hand. Whether as an athlete, a coach, or as individual. We have to put in the hours of work in our crafts. There is no room for contentment and mediocrity. We have to stay hungry. And when we reach the top, may we be reminded that it is only an affirmation of our efforts and sacrifices, the BONUS, if you may. It should never get in our heads. This speaks a lot about our character as individuals.
“Ability may take you to the top, but character keeps you there.”-John Wooden
Notes from the Sidelines:
Today, the Azkals try to salvage entry into the Round of 16 of the AFC Asian Cup in a must win game against the Kyrgyz Republic.
On Sunday, Senator Manny Pacquiao defends his WBA welterweight title against Adrian Broner. Expect less traffic on the streets on this day since most of us will be glued to our TV sets for a welcome respite from the week’s hectic schedules.
All the best to our athletes. “Mabuhay ang atletang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.”