LOPUE’S Table Tennis Association (Loptta)-backed University of St. La Salle paddlers sealed their campaign in the 2017 University Games with a golden cup after beating San Beda College in the men’s finals at Negros Oriental Convention Center in Dumaguete City.
After dethroning erstwhile champions Rizal Technological University in the semifinals, the Bacolod City-based team survived a hard-fought championship battle against San Beda.
John Paul Gubaton gave USLS the edge in the first match with a 3-0 triumph over long-time archrival Alexis Bolante of the Red Lions, but his teammate James Saligumba lost in the second match following a crucial play against his opponent.
In the doubles event, the tandem of Rhomar Dasilao and Joemar Junio poured their best plays to win the title.
Unlike the men’s team, the USLS lady paddlers of Jhayren Rose Villanueva, Kimberly Faith Trasporto, Stephanie Shyne Villanueva, and Catherine Samson fell short when they lost to RTU in the semis, 3-2. The La Sallian team settled for second runner-up.
The Loptta-La Salle’s success is the result of the collective efforts shared by the players, coach Marell Lagunday, USLS sports patron Leonito Lopue, and the USLS community.