CEBU, Philippines - The University of the Visayas led by the Gullas family yesterday paid tribute to the newest toast of its storied basketball program - the UV Passerelle Team - in a simple yet meaningful ceremony yesterday at the school's multi-purpose hall.
The promising UV hardcourt warriors dumped Sacred Heart of Jesus Montessori of Cagayan de Oro City by 45 points, 120-75, in their one-sided final match to rule the 2012 Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) National Under-16 Basketball Championship last Saturday night in Baguio City.
"Today is the day that you should be proud as a Visayanian. You are looking at the best Under-16 team in the Philippines," said UV basketball team manager Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas in his congratulatory message.
"The past week was the longest week of my life. I kept on texting coach Jaymar (Canoy) every single day. It turned out we're the national champions [in the end]," he added.
Also present during the event were UV president and Cebu First District Rep. Eduardo "Eddiegul" R. Gullas, vice president for academic affairs Jacqueline Gullas-Weckman and assistant vice presidents for finance and administration Joselito "Jiji" F. Gullas and Gerald Anthony "Didi" S. Gullas.
The younger Gullas said they dedicate their win to all the doubting Thomases who perceive the team he formed just two years ago as "too young and too immature" to achieve such monumental feat.
"We dedicate this victory to Uncle Dodong who will celebrate his birthday tomorrow (today)," said Samsam, referring to UV Executive Vice President Jose "Dodong" R. Gullas. "This is also dedicated to all the doubters and to all our critics who counted us out from the start."
Gullas himself admitted that he feels like in seventh heaven for his team performing beyond expectations.
"I'm ecstatic. Who would have thought that a fresh two-year program could already win a national championship at this stage. That's why I'm so proud of them. They're the underdogs, but they overcome the odds. That's what UV basketball is all about," said Gullas, who also lavished praise to the members of the coaching staff.
"I would like to commend the coaching staff for grooming this team to win a national championship. To coach Jaymar Canoy for his shooting touch, to Kenneth Pepito for his court vision and to Randy de la Pisa for his athleticism."
Samsam's father Didi Gullas is similarly happy and proud for what the younger batch of Visayanian cage stars has accomplished.
"I'm very happy that they have crossed the line that draws between the impossible and possible. That is because of their determination. The school is honored and proud of you," said Didi Gullas. "Your medals may not be made of gold, but you should take pride for it because it's made out of your sweat. That is the symbol of of your dedication, hardwork and will to fight."
During the awarding rites, the champion players caught everyone by surprise with their wacky dance moves that drew wild cheers and defeaning burst of laughters from a very appreciative crowd.
Led by reigning CESAFI Juniors MVP Andres Paul Desiderio, the other members of the UV Passerelle squad are Vimer Niño Cañete, Prince Liton Cañete, Leonard Santillan, Sheldon Marlon Andre Gahi, Gerald Fernandez, John Carl Escalona, Mark Kevyn Tenebroso, Theo Joshua Flores, John Nigile King, Ralph Jude Dinolan and Karl Vincent Katada. - THE FREEMAN