By MARK REY MONTEJO
National University aims for a record-breaking ninth crown when it defends its throne in the UAAP Season 88 Cheerdance Competition on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.Head coach Gab Bacajan stressed that their performance would be far from last year as NU Pep Squad, the No. 6 in performance list, looks to complete its two-peat bid with its patented “ninja” moves.
“This year talaga, since yung last year’s performance, napaka-challenging yung pinerform ng ating mga competitors, it helps us talaga since we’re motivated to create more,” said Bajacan.
“Kailangan din namin talunin kung ano yung mga nakita naming maganda sa kanila. ‘Yon yung pinaghandaan namin this year and to create new stuff for the competition and for the sport itself,” he added. “We’re happy that we have new players coming in now, and this will prepare them when they are seniors already. Madami kaming ga-graduate kasi this year.”
If stars align, NU could break the three-way tie in the championship table with University of the Philippines and host University of Santo Tomas. All three teams have eight titles so far.
The UP Varsity Pep Squad raises the curtain of the one-day meet with its Christmas-themed performance that will bring an early Holiday vibe to the spectators.
Meanwhile, the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe, determined to end nearly two decades of title drought, will have a Halloween-themed show.
Following UP is University of the East Pep Squad which aims to transport the audience back to the era of High School Musical, while last year’s runner-up Adamson Pep Squad will showcase the story of its journey.
The Ateneo Blue Eagles bring animation to life as they perform to the soundtrack of Illumination Entertainment’s Sing, while La Salle University Animo Squad goes for a homer with its Diamond-inspired routine.
With an aim of championing the Filipino culture, Far Eastern University Cheering Squad will feature the childhood games.
The UAAP is also calling on the community to show up in white in a united push for its anthem of the season: ‘Passion for Victory, Passion for Integrity! No to Corruption!’”
