Kickstart 2025: Young Players Kick Off School Year with Purpose and Play

As students geared up for a brand-new school year, FundLife’s Kickstart: Back to School Futsal Tournament brought energy, excitement, and empowerment straight to the futsal court! Held on July 26, 2025, the one-day tournament welcomed 164 student-athletes from partner schools and communities across Tacloban City and Dulag, Leyte. From elementary rookies to high school standouts, the players came ready not only to compete but also to connect, learn, and grow through the power of sport.

This tournament was more than just a game—it was a celebration of what FundLife stands for: fun, purpose, and opportunity. It was created with four main goals: to provide a lively and encouraging space that helps students transition smoothly into School Year 2025 - 2026; to showcase young talents and individual strengths; to reinforce important life values like commitment and perseverance; and to offer a platform where youth can develop their futsal skills and unlock their full potential. The day was filled with movement, motivation, and memories to last.

In the Elementary Division, Lorenzo Daa Memorial School took home championship titles in both the Girls and Boys categories. The Girls Category saw Rawis Elementary School as 1st runner-up and Libertad Elementary School Team B as 2nd runner-up. For the Boys, Rawis Elementary Team A was 1st runner-up, followed by Ridgeview Park Integrated School Team A in 2nd runner-up. Outstanding players were recognized for their talents: April Mae was named Most Valuable Player and also took home the Golden Boot, while Thea Jhayne, Diana Mitch, and Kathlyn earned awards for Best Defender, Best Forward, and Best Goalkeeper in the Girls Category. On the Boys' side, Aljur was named MVP, with Prince, Jemark, Kelvin Jake, and John Paul receiving awards for Best Defender, Best Forward, Best Goalkeeper, and Golden Boot.

In the High School Division, Sagkahan National High School Team A claimed the Girls Category championship, with Sagkahan National High School Team B as 1st runner-up and San Isidro as 2nd runner-up. The Boys Category was won by San Isidro Lions A, with San Isidro Lions B taking 1st runner-up, and KVIS Team A placing 2nd runner-up. Special awards went to players who showed remarkable skill and sportsmanship: Shanine (Girls MVP), Andreah Kate Caldoza (Best Defender), Shamcey (Best Forward), Elaiza (Best Goalkeeper), and Princess Honrales (Golden Boot). On the Boys’ side, Jhon Rod was named MVP, with Nygel Gerado, John Rey Rosel, Kent, and Jomar earning awards for Best Defender, Best Forward, Best Goalkeeper, and Golden Boot.

Beyond the competition, FundLife made sure every participant felt valued. Teams that didn’t place were given football jerseys to celebrate their hard work and participation, showing that every player matters regardless of the scoreboard. Each partner school and community site also received a futsal ball—a lasting resource to help them continue training and playing long after the tournament ended.

The event was made even more special by the presence of local champions in education and youth development, including Sonia N. Cabalona, Education Program Specialist II for Social Mobilization & Networking of Department of Education Tacloban City Division, and  Manolito C. Bolpa, Sports Coordinator and EPS II under SGOD of  DepEd Tacloban City Division and dedicated teachers and coaches such as Ma. Lanie C. Villamor and Rufino Homerez from Antonio Balmes National High School, Feigi Louie Pedrera, Futsal Tournament Director of Tacloban City Division, Mary Joice F. Malate from North Hill Arbours Integrated School, and Dave Rondina from Lorenzo Daa Memorial School. Parents also joined in, cheering their children on and sharing in their proud moments on the court.

From the first whistle to the last, the energy was unstoppable. “At first, I was a little scared because there were a lot of teams we didn’t know, and they looked like outstanding players. But it was also fun because I made new friends. Even though we didn’t win, I still had a great time and made new friends,” said Princess Jade, a first-timer in the FundLife All-Site Tournament from Rawis Elementary School, Dulag, Leyte.

Every pass, goal, and high-five was a reminder that when young people are given the chance to play, they discover not only skills but also confidence, courage, and a sense of community.

“This program is truly a blessing because it helps our kids avoid bad influences while they’re still young, and it supports their physical development early on. At the same time, it teaches our students sportsmanship—how to get along with other kids, even if they come from different backgrounds. Through this program, everyone comes together and builds strong camaraderie,” shared Dave Rondina, Teacher and Focal Person from Lorenzo Daa Memorial School.

Supported by teachers, families, and FundLife’s growing network, the Kickstart tournament was more than just a back-to-school event—it was a powerful reminder that every child deserves a level playing field to dream, play, and lead.