Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continues to make waves on the international stage, reaching a new career milestone by advancing to the semifinals of the WTA 250 Eastbourne Open after a dominant straight-sets win over Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska on Thursday, June 27 (Philippine time).The 20-year-old Eala displayed grit and maturity well beyond her years as she outclassed the World No. 42 Yastremska, 6-1, 6-2, in a clinical performance that underscored her growing confidence on grass courts. The victory came just a day after she pulled off one of the biggest wins of her young career by stunning World No. 20 and former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko.Even with strong winds sweeping through the Eastbourne courts, Eala remained unfazed. She showcased a well-rounded game anchored by deep, consistent returns and tactical precision that kept her Ukrainian opponent off-balance throughout the match. With a decisive 57-37 advantage in total points won, Eala’s control over the match was evident from start to finish.

In a gripping Finals opener that could very well define the arc of UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws delivered a statement win, outlasting the five-peat-seeking National University (NU) Bulldogs in a five-set thriller.With a 22-25, 25-22, 13-25, 25-22, 15-13 victory, the Tamaraws are now just one win away from claiming the crown—and they’ve made it clear: they want it more.The Tamaraws weren’t just sharp in execution—they played with urgency and hunger. That desperation was unmistakable in their grit and their refusal to fold, even after losing the first and third sets. FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo didn’t mince his words when explaining what pushed his team over the edge.“We were hungry,” Orcullo emphasized in Filipino. “That kind of hunger drives you to prepare and push through the toughest moments. We knew we wanted this championship, and we played like it.”This was more than just coachspeak. Orcullo’s squad backed up his words with an inspired performance. 

In the world of collegiate volleyball, some stars shine quietly, only to blaze brightly when the time is right. Jhasmin Gayle Pascual, born on August 3, 1999, is one such star—a powerful opposite hitter whose journey with the Benilde Lady Blazers became a story of resilience, dominance, and triumph.When Pascual first stepped onto the court for the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in NCAA Season 95, expectations were high. She was poised to make her mark—but fate had other plans. The season, like many sports events in 2020, came to an abrupt halt as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. For Pascual and her teammates, it was a moment of heartbreak and uncertainty, a pause in what could have been a breakout year.But champions are not only defined by trophies—they are also shaped by how they bounce back.Two years later, the NCAA returned with renewed vigor in Season 97. The Lady Blazers came back with something to prove, and Pascual emerged as one of their most vital weapons. With her powerful spikes and unshakable composure, she led the team to their second NCAA title—their first since Season 90. Her performance earned her the Finals Most Valuable Player award, a fitting recognition for someone who had waited years for her moment.

Former Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is embarking on a new chapter, having officially signed with the SG Hawks of Mongolia.Tsuzurabara’s contract runs from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, offering the seasoned Japanese mentor a fresh opportunity on the international volleyball stage. He is set to depart for Ulaanbaatar via Seoul on September 3, where he will immediately begin preparations with his new squad.“It’s a fresh start with a new team. Although it will be a short stay, I’m committed to working hard and giving my best for my new home team,” Tsuzurabara told Scoreline.ph.The move follows his tenure with the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League, where his tactical expertise and steady leadership were instrumental. Last April of this year, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in their Game 3 battle.For the former Petro Gazz head coach, their championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.Tsuzurabara then never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.Tsuzurabara was also fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.“I trust the players we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.And now in Mongolia, Tsuzurabara aims to bring the same experience and passion as he leads the SG Hawks in their upcoming campaign.

Marck Espejo’s journey from a young Marikina native to one of the Philippines’ most decorated volleyball icons is nothing short of inspiring. His name now echoes across Asian courts as a symbol of excellence and perseverance.Born on March 1, 1997, Espejo discovered his love for volleyball at a young age. His dream began taking shape during his time at Santa Elena High School. Espejo quickly rose through the ranks, securing Best Attacker awards at prestigious tournaments like the 2012 Palarong Pambasa, 2011 Milo Little Olympics, and the 2012 and NCR Volleyball Regional Meet. His exceptional performance quickly put him on the national radar. Ateneo de Manila University saw the potential in the young spiker and brought him in to join the Blue Eagles’ men’s volleyball team. In his UAAP debut during Season 76, Espejo made an immediate impact by claiming both the Rookie of the Year and the Season MVP honors—an extraordinary achievement for a first-year player.That was only the beginning.Espejo spearheaded Ateneo’s championship dynasty from Season 77 to 79, claiming three straight UAAP titles and dominating the individual awards list with multiple Best Attacker, Best Server, Best Scorer, and MVP honors. He closed out his collegiate career with a historic 55-point explosion against FEU in the Season 80 semifinals, cementing his legacy with one of the most remarkable performances in UAAP history.

When Jann So Tiong first stepped onto the ice, it was not competition that greeted him, it was curiosity. What began as a casual public skating session with his parents soon turned into a lifelong passion.“We happened to run into one of my mom’s college friends whose son played ice hockey,” he recalled. “They let me try it, and I just soon grew to love it.”Born on February 1, 2002, Jann is a solid defenseman for the Philippine Ice Hockey Team. What drives him most is not personal glory, but the privilege of representing his country on the international stage.“In one word, it’s honor,” he said. “You don’t always get the opportunity to represent your country. I take so much pride and honor in playing for the Philippines.”For the University of Santo Tomas product, the team is not just a group of athletes, it is family.“We are all different in terms of age,” he explained. “There are older ones we look up to like kuyas, and younger ones too. Our coaches and team manager are like fathers or titos.”The family-like bond goes beyond camaraderie; it was built on accountability and respect. “Even the younger ones can call out the older ones if something’s wrong,” he said. “We keep each other accountable, whether it’s about discipline or teamwork.”This close-knit culture, he believes, is what fuels the team’s growth and strengthens their unity on ice.As one of the national team’s rising defensive anchors, Jann has his eyes set on both personal and team achievements. “Of course, I want to help the country move up divisions in our world championship ranking,” he shared. “And I want to bring pride to the Philippines by winning medals, whether in the SEA Games or other tournaments.”Individual recognition would be nice, he admitted, but it is not his main goal. “I’d rather get a gold medal for the country than any personal award,” the San Juan native said, reflecting his team-first mindset.Outside of hockey, Jann enjoys a grounded, family-oriented life. “When I’m not at the rink, I’m either working out or spending time with my family,” he said. “I also like trying different things—new food, new activities. I just like experiencing new things.”His passion for the game, however, always shines through. When asked what message he would give to anyone curious about hockey, his response was simple and inspiring:“It can be scary at the start, since you’re on skates and on ice, but if you give it a try, you’ll like it. It’s something you don’t see every day, and once you try it, you’ll realize it’s easier than you think.”From a young skater in San Juan to a national team defenseman, Jann So Tiong’s journey is one marked by passion, discipline, and national pride. His story reflects the heart of Philippine ice hockey itself, tight-knit, resilient, and always ready to defend the country’s colors with pride. 

The Meralco Bolts will serve as the sole Philippine representative in the upcoming 2025-26 East Asia Super League (EASL) season, as confirmed by league officials on Thursday, July 31.With the PBA’s 50th season packed with games, the league opted to field only one team instead of the usual two. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial explained the decision, citing scheduling difficultIes.

Unbeaten WBC top-ranked junior featherweight contender David Picasso of Mexico has officially joined forces with esteemed advisor Sean Gibbons of Knuckleheads Boxing, who also serves as COO of Manny Pacquiao’s Promotions.In a bold statement, Gibbons voiced his enthusiasm about the potential of both Picasso—set to compete on the undercard of Pacquiao’s highly anticipated return against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19—and the undisputed 122-lb champion Naoya Inoue.Gibbons emphasized that victories from both fighters could pave the way for a monumental showdown between Inoue and Picasso this December in Saudi Arabia.In addition to guiding Picasso, Gibbons also represents former champions Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Mark Magsayo, who are featured on the Pacquiao card. He has also successfully propelled numerous fighters to world titles and defenses, including IBF 130-lb champion Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez, IBF junior bantamweight champion Willibaldo Garcia, IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran, and newly crowned WBC interim flyweight champion Francisco Rodriguez.“I am genuinely thrilled to work with David Picasso. It’s a blessing to collaborate with some of the most significant names in Mexican boxing, and David is on the verge of fighting for Inoue’s belts. I am deeply committed to helping him realize his aspirations,” Gibbons stated.He also expressed gratitude to Al Haymon of Premier Boxing Champions for securing Picasso—whose impressive record stands at 31-0-1 (17 KOs)—a spot on the July 19 card following the withdrawal of another opponent.Gibbons’ remarkable history of guiding a wide array of Mexican fighters to championship glory fuels his confidence in Picasso’s future.“Inoue has only two elite challengers left in his division: Akhmadaliev and Picasso,” Gibbons noted.

UAAP executive director Rebo Saguisag announced that, beginning Season 89, schools will be permitted to include up to two foreign student-athletes (FSAs) in their team pools for all sports.“This was approved this year and, like all our rules, will take effect the following season — so starting UAAP Season 89,” Saguisag said in a statement. Under the new rule, only one FSA can be on the active roster, with the other on reserve.Previously, teams were limited to a single FSA. The change aims to provide roster security—especially after instances like National University being left without an FSA due to injury—while maintaining competitive balance. “For all sports, teams can have two foreign student-athletes in their pool, but only one can be part of the active roster at a time, with the other on reserve,” he added.The rule takes effect next year, as UAAP Season 88 kicks off this week. 

A straight-set play over Chile sealed Bulgaria’s flawless run in Pool E, as the world No. 12 squad surged into the FIVB Men’s World Championship knockout rounds with a spotless 3-0 record.The Bulgarians left no doubt of their dominance, dismantling Chile, 25-17, 25-12, 25-12, on Wednesday, September 17, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. With the win, Bulgaria secured the top spot in their group and is set to face the Pool D runner-up — likely Portugal or Cuba — in the Round of 16.

Ysa Bakabak defied the usual path taken by many sports journalists.While others often turned to reporting after unfulfilled dreams of becoming professional athletes, Bakabak managed to pursue both—breaking into the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as middle blocker for the Akari Chargers while she continued her role as a sports writer for The Lasallian, De La Salle University’s official student publication.The 22-year-old stood out not just for her height and skill on the court but for her ability to balance athletics, journalism, and academics.Bakabak had been part of the DLSU Lady Spikers’ training pool but was never officially fielded in collegiate leagues. Despite the limited exposure and absence of high-profile playing experience, she took a bold step by joining the inaugural PVL draft.Her name was not called during the draft, but she remained undeterred. She later reflected that she wasn’t discouraged, understanding that teams might have prioritized players with greater public visibility. She believed that her lack of collegiate play limited her exposure, but not her potential. Confident in her abilities, she trusted that she could succeed at the professional level and expressed gratitude that Akari recognized that and signed her as a free agent.Her signing with Akari marked a significant turning point, especially after overcoming challenges in her athletic journey. 

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the Gilas Pilipinas national team are in a holding pattern as they await word from FIBA regarding the status of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, originally slated to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from August 5 to 17.The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and Gilas Pilipinas are awaiting word from FIBA officials if the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 will push through in Jeddah as there is a tension rising between Iran and Israel.The tournament’s staging is now uncertain amid growing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel. With safety concerns looming, national federations and participating teams are left in a state of limbo, including the Philippines, which is among the 16 teams set to compete.

Chezka Centeno started playing billiards at the age of five, and her potential was discovered at eight when she competed in local tournaments in her family's hometown.At age 11, she began participating in the Philippine National Games. A year later, she was invited to the Kremlin Cup in Russia, where she finished in the top 32.In 2014, Centeno competed in the Asian Junior Championship and won first place in the girls' singles category.The following year, she claimed the gold medal in the nine-ball women's singles at the 2015 Southeast Asian Games, defeating fellow Filipina Rubilen Amit in the final.

Filipino cyclist Joseph Javiniar delivered a breakthrough performance for the Philippines at the PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi, finishing second in Sprint 2 (74.1km) of the grueling 214km Stage 7.Riding for 7Eleven Cliqq Road Bike Philippines, Javiniar made his mark by joining the race’s key breakaway group — the first time a Filipino has done so since 2018. His impressive sprint earned him a podium finish behind Malaysia’s Aiman Rosli, who took first place, while Yusri Shaari settled for third.Javiniar’s achievement not only showcased Filipino cycling talent on the international stage but also marked a promising step for the national contingent in one of Asia’s toughest road races.

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour — Nuvali Futures concluded on a high note on Sunday, May 4, after four days of thrilling action on the sand that saw top-tier talent from around the world collide with fierce competition.In the women’s division, it was Shaunna Polley and Olivia Macdonald of New Zealand who stood tallest, claiming gold after an impressive campaign. The Kiwi pair displayed superior teamwork and consistent play throughout the tournament, culminating in a finals’ victory, 21-18, 21-14, over Japan’s Sakura Ito and Mayu Sawame, who clinched silver.Meanwhile, the bronze medal went to Lithuania’s Ieva Dumbauskaite and Gerda Grudzinskaite. They outplayed Romania’s Beata Vaida and Francesca Ioana Alupei, 21-19, 19-21, 19-17, in the third-place match to round out the podium.

For Steven Füglister, ice hockey isn’t just a sport, It’s a lifelong passion that began on the frozen rinks of Zurich, Switzerland, and now thrives thousands of miles away in the tropics of the Philippines.Born on January 25, 1986, Füglister grew up surrounded by the sport. “In the neighborhood I grew up in, all the kids played hockey,” he recalled. “So I naturally wanted to join. All my friends played, and the love just evolved from there.”That childhood fascination became a lifelong commitment. Today, Füglister proudly serves as center and captain of the Philippine National Ice Hockey Team, a squad that continues to defy expectations in a country more associated with beaches than blades.Representing the Philippines on the international stage, he says, is an experience that never loses its meaning. “It’s always a big honor,” he shared, reflecting the pride he feels wearing the national colors on his jersey.This year’s roster features many new faces, but that doesn’t faze Füglister, who’s long been a steadying force for the team. “We have a lot of newcomers who joined the men’s national team, so we’re trying to gel, include everyone, and form a new team, basically,” he said. That sense of unity is what fuels their drive, especially with competitions like the Southeast Asian Games in sight.Fuglister’s personal goal remains simple yet powerful: “Become better every day and, as a team, be successful at the SEA Games.”“Off the rink, life is just as busy. I have three kids, so they keep me busy,” he said with a smile. “I’m trying to get my twin boys excited for hockey and maybe they’ll one day share the same passion for the game. When I’m not at the rink, I love spending time with my wife, travel and focusing on business. “While ice hockey may still be growing in popularity in the Philippines, Füglister believes it’s only a matter of exposure before Filipinos embrace the sport’s intensity. “It’s something not really ordinary here,” he admitted. “But once you come to the rink and watch the game, it’s really exciting—the speed, the grit, and the action.”And for those curious to give the sport a shot, his advice is straightforward: “Go to the SM Skating Rinks, try public skating, and maybe at one point, try hockey.”From Swiss beginnings to Southeast Asian glory, Steven Füglister embodies the spirit of passion, perseverance, and pride. Under his leadership, the Philippine ice hockey team continues to prove that even in a tropical country, champions can be forged on ice.

Unbeaten Filipino middleweight contender Weljon Mindoro is keeping the door open to representing the Philippines in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games — a move he and his team consider a great honor.Mindoro, alongside handlers Gerry Balmes and Orly Barcelango, are awaiting official communication from the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) or the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) to formalize his inclusion.During Monday’s presentation of the 3rd Asian Youth Games medalists, POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino mentioned Mindoro’s possible addition to the national boxing lineup.“Wala naman kaming ihi-hindi. Sa tingin ko mas maganda kung maging pormal na lang yung pagmi-meeting diyan,” said Barcelango during the PSA Forum. “Hindi namin ipagdadamot si Weljon dahil isang karangalan yun makapagsilbi para sa bayan.”A native of Zamboanga del Sur, Mindoro previously competed in Batang Pinoy and Palarong Pambansa, but never made it to the national team. Competing in the SEA Games, he said, would be a dream come true.“Excited ako diyan na makalaban sa SEA Games. Kung manalo ako sa SEA Games, mas maganda kung makalaban ako sa Olympics,” he added.Mindoro and his team are set to train in Japan for stronger sparring partners. Trainer Joven Jimenez and former champion Jerwin Ancajas have also expressed support for his SEA Games prospects.Mindoro recently served as a sparring partner for Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial in the Thrilla in Manila 50th Anniversary event. His team hopes he’ll soon officially join the national squad, eager to chase gold and represent the country on a bigger stage.

The UST Growling Tigers will be missing a key weapon in their UAAP Season 88 opener as star guard Forthsky Padrigao serves a one-game suspension.Padrigao is sidelined for UST’s clash against reigning champions, the UP Fighting Maroons, on Sunday, September 21, at the Quadricentennial Pavilion. His suspension stems from the two unsportsmanlike fouls he committed in last season’s Final Four matchup versus UP, where the Tigers bowed out, 78-69.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has thrown its full support behind President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for a healthier, more active citizenry by officially opening its track and field facilities to the public—free of charge.This initiative follows the President’s remarks during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, where he raised concern over the increasing weight among Filipinos aged 20 and above. Marcos urged the public to engage in physical activities and called on local government units (LGUs) to revitalize public spaces such as parks and plazas to encourage outdoor movement.“Let’s promote the organization of games, sports leagues, fun runs, fun walks, as well as aerobics and Zumba sessions,” said Marcos. He also announced plans to implement “car-free Sundays” in more cities, expanding on similar programs already in place in parts of Metro Manila.

Mary Joy Dacoron, born on October 11, 1995, is a Filipino professional volleyball player currently playing as a middle blocker for the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). Hailing from Oslob, Cebu and raised in Balamban, Dacoron has built a reputation not just as a solid presence on the court, but also as a woman of resilience, intelligence, and heart.Her journey in volleyball began when she was scouted by Fr. Max Rendon, CM, then Vice President for Finance at Adamson University, during her senior year of high school. She moved to Manila to pursue her studies and was granted an athletic scholarship. Initially aspiring to take up BS Accountancy, she eventually shifted to BSBA Financial Management due to the demands of her volleyball training.Dacoron started as a developmental player for two years with Adamson’s Team B. It was not until UAAP Season 77 that she was officially part of the women’s volleyball roster, although she spent most of that season on the bench.Her breakthrough game happened in the UAAP Season 79 under head coach Air Padda, who helped unlock her full potential. By Season 80, she was recognized as one of the top middle blockers in the league.Despite a difficult campaign in Season 81, Dacoron remained grateful for her five years with Adamson, saying, “Adamson is my life. I stayed in Adamson, so it’s already in my blood.”