Arsenal in the Community Coaches together with the support of the FundLife team managed to organize a fun-filled and memorable Arsenal Cup for 63 selected youth (girls and boys) from schools and communities last July 6, 2019, at the Multi-purpose Community Center of Brgy. Sampaguita, Tacloban City.
Team Highbury emerged on top out of 6 strong teams with mixed girls and boys from Sagkahan National High School (SNHS), San Jose National High School (SJNHS), Sagkahan Central School (SCS), Palo National High School (PNSH), Tanauan School of Craftsmanship and Home Industries (TSCHI) and communities – Brgy, Anibong and Brgy. San Isidro.
Team Highbury awarded as Champions by Coach Al (2nd row, left and Coach Oscar (2nd row, right)
Team Emirates snatched the 2nd place while Team Anibong got the 3rd place. The winning teams were awarded medals from the Arsenal in the Community.
Team Emirates awarded 2nd place.
Team Emirates awarded 3rd place.
Meanwhile, Daniel Ocenar was awarded as the Player of the Tournament for his exemplary performance as a team captain and positive attitude towards other player’s event, both on and off-the-field.
Daniel (center) with Coach Al and Oscar.
Unlike typical tournaments, the players did not solely represent their own teams, instead they were combined with other players and formed a team to ensure skill was less important and good communication and teamwork was needed for in game success. Each of them played with other children whom they usually play against in the regular Football for Life Academy program.
From the friendly tap on the shoulder, team cheer and thumbs up sign, players showed positivity and encouragement even to their teammates who made mistakes during their games. All teams showed the willingness of each player to adjust for their teammates. The older boys and girls step up for each of their team and gave opportunities for the younger ones to play more.
“It was a perfect way to end the experience with the kids. The players showed great commitment a resilient attitude and excellent teamwork. I was impressed with the cohesion between the older kids and the younger counterparts whilst playing in mixed teams. However I also commend the bravery of the younger ones specifically to join different teams and to meet new people. All of this things combined to create a wonderful Arsenal Cup,” AIC Coach Al, shared after the tournament.
AIC Coach Oscar agreed on coach Al’s assessment and expressed how proud he is with the kids and how everyone worked together to make a great tournament.
It was a fitting way for the Arsenal Coaches to end their time in Tacloban after spending three months with players. The festival communicated to all players that in sport, you don't just do well through good skill, you often win when you are able to work as a team and help each other become better. A lesson that everyone can benefit from.
