Reflecting on their days as MSUan varsity athletes, the formidable duo of Arman Macasayon and John Rhyl Valdez clinched the gold in intense alumni badminton competition, triumphing over five other strong contenders with an impressive 3-1 win-loss record. (Photo by John Ross Sambanan) The inaugural MSU Chancellor's Cup Badminton Invitational Tournament marked a pivotal moment in the university's badminton history, as former MSU-GenSan Intramurals champions and varsity athletes, Arman Macasayon and Jon Rhyl Valdez from the College of Engineering achieved an extraordinary feat by clinching victory in the alumni category.
Beyond the realm of mere competition, this tournament became a watershed moment, illustrating the profound legacy of badminton in the institution. Former college players from various ages and professions gathered to demonstrate their skills, transforming the event into a striking monument to the vast range of sports. FROM CAMPUS GLORY TO PROFESSIONAL VICTORY
Arman Macasayon and Jon Rhyl Valdez, esteemed figures in the badminton circuit, have carved an impressive path through their illustrious careers, marked by numerous tournament triumphs, culminating in a recent stellar victory.
Their ascent to success has been extraordinary. From securing the coveted MSU-GenSan Intramurals title during the 2018–2019 season to their transition from collegiate victories to the professional league, the duo's journey epitomizes unwavering dedication and passion for the shuttlecock sport.
Valdez credited the tandem's success to an unyielding passion for badminton. Their evolution from university champions to victorious contenders in professional tournaments showcases the enduring nature of their skills and the immense joy derived from the game.
BEYOND CAMPUS BOARDERS Not content with leaving a mark solely within university walls, Macasayon and Valdez, have soared beyond, raising MSU-GenSan’s profile through triumphs in prestigious off-campus competitions. In 2018, Macasayon and Valdez showcased their exceptional badminton skills by securing fifth place in the Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (MASTS). Their success extended beyond campus with a notable fourth-place finish in the 2017 MSU System Athletic Association Unity Games (MSUSAA), highlighting their competitive edge beyond university boundaries.
"Being part of the inaugural Chancellor’s Cup and emerging as champions has been an incredible honor," Valdez expressed with heartfelt gratitude. Their victory holds significance, not just for themselves but for the entire badminton community within the university.
UNWAVERING DEDICATION OUTSIDE CAREERS The two seasoned badminton players, now thriving as Electrical Engineers at the Damalerio Group of Companies, unequivocally demonstrate that neither time nor age hinder their enduring dedication to the sport. Valdez emphasized the tournament's importance, stating, "Nagapasalamat gyud mi kay Chancellor kay naay ani nga event para sa tanan alumni, tung mga ahead sa amoa kay nakilala pa namo tungod ani ug nakadula pa namo sila." Macasayon further emphasized their commitment, stating they intend to participate again if scheduling allows, showing willingness to defend their championship next year. Meanwhile, Jane Vea Lendio, one of the tournament directors, expressed profound appreciation for all of the players' participation. She emphasized that their collective engagement not only added vibrancy to the tournament but also played a crucial part in ensuring the success of their category, which served as a cornerstone of the competition. "Dito namin nalaman na hanggang ngayon invested parin sila [MSU alumni] sa kanilang sport before and interested pa rin sila to support the activity na ginagawa ng university," she added. As the tournament's alumni category came to a finish, Nelson Supilanas and Sandy Himoros secured the first runners-up position, followed by Ralph Gurondianao and Diomedes Madanguit as the second runners-up, and Jake Reyes and Meden Calicaran claiming the third spot.
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