STEPS in becoming a champion starts from interest.
It may not be as dramatic as “love at first sight” but it is a decision that one makes which could spark the start of a road full of challenges and pushing through or quitting in the process is an indication of how bad and or how important it is for that person to attain his goal or objective.
Most aspiring athletes have their mind on the goal, on the price and or on the result, ignoring the obstacles which lies ahead and needed to be hurdled in order to realize their goal or objective.
In the arnis community, amidst its fast growing popularity, many teams from different regions in the country are still young and starting.
Their will and determination is a tool which can be trained and honed to be future champions. With the right mentors, these fledgling teams could very well be the future of the sports of arnis. Of course with the assistance of local government units and NGOs who could find it in their interest and their generous heart to support the dreams of this young future arnisadors.
One good example of fledging young arnis teams are the San Fernando City, La Union Arnis Team from La Union High School, Masicong Elementary School and Catbangen Central School under the tutelage of Nathaniel Catbagan and his fellow coaches Catherine Lorena, Melinda Cariño, Aivee Castro and Eva Rizza Flores who are all teachers functioning as coaches for the arnis athletes of San Fernando City, La Union with the support of Vice Mayor Alfredo Pablo Ortega whose heart is close to the athletes knowing and understanding their sacrifices and dreams.
Catbagan said their primary aim is to be immersed as arnis athletes in order for their players to feel they belong in the sport and hope they could be motivated and soon bring honor to their school and the City of San Fernando.
Catbagan added Vice Mayor Ortega and other good Samaritans are their lifelines in trying to realize their dream as the team needs finances and in-kind assistance.