Free throws

On Saturday night, I arrived in a silent house with a television set blaring to a sports channel - the Asian leg of the International Basketball Federation or more popularly known as FIBA, was on. It was the Philippines' hand at bagging the third place for this year's competition. This time they were against host country China.

With a few milliseconds on the clock, Philippine team player Paul Lee aimed for the three-point score when he was fouled by an opponent. Lee's teammates on the benches were cheering because that signaled that we had a slim chance at winning if Lee shoots his three free throws successfully.

The Chinese audience was jeering at Lee hoping he wouldn't score but his first shot smoothly went inside the ring. The second one was the same too. The score between the two countries were tied at this moment and a sheer one point would lead our country into victory. When Lee released the ball from his hands, the third shot scored and the Philippines landed the best finish ever in the FIBA Asia games: third place. Next year, they will be trying their luck at the international leg of FIBA at Spain.

Third isn't such a bad rank. After all, winning against champion Iran already seemed impossible given the height of this opponent. We, Filipinos are not blessed with towering heights but we sure do have the heart to overcome the impossible.

Meanwhile, ice skater Michael Martinez has been granted financial support by a private institution for his athletic endeavors, training included. Martinez was our sole athlete at the 2014 Sochi winter Olympics. He went on his own sheer will, without financial support behind him while leaving his studies for his Olympic dream. During the competition, his smooth move on the ice was deeply applauded by the world although he did not win. As he glided on the ice, his heart was for the Filipinos.

As of today and onwards, Martinez will be training for the next winter Olympics and is hoping to bag a medal for the country. If he does, he will be the first ever Filipino to do such considering that we do not have ice in this tropical weather. His determination sparks an inspiration to other aspiring athletes.

Good news such as these always sends a happy hormone to my senses. The way I see it, athletes who compete for different games abroad are not simply showing off their above-average skills but they are actually representing the country. The Philippine flag is worn on their sleeve and the Filipino trait is imprinted on their hearts.

At any event we do not show support to our athletes, we are not genuinely showing concern for our fellowmen. Sport like these may look like a leisurely event but they are straining their bodies day and night to bring pride to our country. At least, we can bring our name back on the map in this aspect.

In another span of time the ASEAN games will be held. The Philippine football team, most popularly known as the Azkals, is on standby for their next competition. The Philippine Volcanoes, our rugby team, are also probably busy training for what awaits them and the list of teams goes on.

Sports, just like education, are areas where we could also cultivate our youth. It is a form of diverting their attention from activities that lead them to a sedentary lifestyle, i.e. social media, drinking sprees, etc. If they are busy training with a group under a leadership of a mentor, then their minds will be geared towards doing good in their studies and in their homes. Also, it fosters discipline and tolerance in the individual. What else would convince our authorities to invest in sports?

In the next few weeks, a sports competition joined by student-athletes will open in Cebu. It's time to show support to our future world-class players.