THE girls from Pontevedra have emerged as champions in the first-ever Governor’s Cup Beach Soccer Championship organized by he Provincial Government of Negros Occidental in Sipalay City from November 25 to 27, 2022.
Beach sports were gaining popularity in the province, and as the inaugural beach soccer tournament kicked off in the southern Negros Occidental city, the Pontevedra–Pamplona team cruised to victory against Cadiz City Rushkals after netting two goals resulting in a 2-0 scoresheet.
Landing in second place (first runner-up) was the Cadiz City Rushkals, following the team’s defeat against Pontevedra. Sagay City, on the other hand, ranked third (second runner-up) in the competition.
For the special awards, Joyce Gemberva, Khey Balateria, and Alixa May Casi of Team Pontevedra nabbed the Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper, and Most Valuable Player recognitions, respectively.
Cadiz City’s Joy Mantunding earned the Best Midfielder title, while Alija Antoinette Lacson of Sagay City got the Best Striker award.
All the winners received medals and trophies.
Ten teams participated in the three-day tournament, and the list included San Carlos City, Sagay City, Cadiz City (PPFFAC), Cadiz City (Rushkals), One Silay, Bata Tigers, Pontevedra – A, Pontevedra – B, Himamaylan City, and the Municipality of Ilog. There was only one category for the competition–the women’s open.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Sports Office commended Sipalay City for hosting the tournament.
During the opening ceremony, the city’s local officials showed their support and attended the event.
The first Governor’s Cup Beach Soccer Championship is part of the Abanse Negrense Grassroots Sports Development programs initiated by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson through the Provincial Sports Office.
Lacson reiterated that sports programs are among the priorities of the provincial government.
Through the Abanse Negrense sports advocacies, the governor hoped to provide more opportunities for local athletes to develop their skills and abilities, which could help them secure scholarships for a better future. (PR)