TACLOBAN CITY – The ‘Bagong Sibol’ Grassroots Tournament, organized by the San Juanico De Tacloban Sepak Takraw Club Incorporation, kicked off at Robinsons North Tacloban City from April 24 to 27, 2025.
Among the passionate participants is 12-year-old Yvan Bryceley Castillote, a young player representing the Scaniards SDC team from Scan Tacloban City.
In a short yet insightful interview, Bryceley openly shared his reasons for joining the tournament: “For experience,” he said simply. When asked to elaborate, he added, “I applied because I have experience.”
The young athlete showed determination and focus when he talked about his preparations. “Training,” he said. “Ball control, receiving, and serving.” These are the key skills he’s been honing ahead of the competition.
Bryceley has already built a strong foundation in sepak takraw. He mentioned having played for two years as a crowd player and participated in at least one to three tournaments before joining this event.
When asked about his team’s goal for the Bagong Sibol tournament, Bryceley answered with maturity beyond his years: “Give our best. Give us a good performance.”
The grassroots tournament, under the leadership of Director Francisco Albesa Jr., continues to be a platform for young athletes like Yvan to gain exposure, showcase their talents, and foster a deeper love for the sport.
As the Bagong Sibol Grassroots Tournament progresses, stories like Yvan’s reflect the spirit and potential that youth sports can nurture in local communities.
(JHARRLYN O. NAPOLES, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
