THE 4th edition of the Abba’s Orchard School Cup football festival is one way for the school to celebrate according to owner Christopher Barrameda during his inspirational message to hundreds of participants, officials and parents who attended the opening ceremony at their La Granja Estates campus in Baungon, Bukidnon, boundary of Cagayan de Oro City up on the hills of Indahag.
“I welcome you all to the 4th Abba’s Orchard Football Cup. For two Saturdays we will celebrate for three reasons,’’ he quipped.
He added that first they celebrate the competitive ideal of human spirit in the sports of football. “One that pushes us all to excel and be the best in what we have been gifted to be.”
“Two we celebrate the camaraderie and the fellowship and brotherhood as we enjoy the games as athletes and spectators,’’ he said.
He also said that the most important of all is that we celebrate the Giver of Life, Abba Father, “Who allows us to recreate the wonders of the human body in the sport of football. The Abba’s Orchard is humbled to contribute to these celebrations,’’ he ended.
On behalf of the Abba’s Board of Directors, facluty and staff he declared this year’s tournament open.
More than fifty including some out of town teams led by Abba’s Orchard Cebu Campus of coach Robert Nicart are entered in today’s tournament.
Abba’s Orchard School has 12 campuses all over the country and two of them are in CdO.
Teams joining include Rosevale School, Liceo University, Corpus Christi School, Higala FC, Bulua Strikers FC, Lumbia FC Raptors. Out of town teams come from Gingoog, and Iligan.
As of press time action were still on going in the 7-Aside competitions in the U-9 (2009), U-11 (2007), U-13 (2005), U-19 Boys (1999) and U18 Girls (2000).
The 11-Aside competition on Feb. 10 will feature only the U-19 Boys (1999) and U18 Girls (2000).
Winners will get trophies and medals. (l.biantan@gmail.com)