ITAM25: Ready? SPIKE!

Bringing the Bosconian Spirit to Far Eastern University: Institute of Technology, the first games of the 14th ITAMS Invitational Sportsfest finally happened this August 7, 2025. Here’s a quick rundown.
 
Our DBS Women’s Volleyball Varsity arrived at the venue at 6:50 am for their first game against Leatran Lacson Integrated School. Sporting their blue DBS varsity jerseys, the girls readied up and prepared for the first set. As the round progressed, the girls’ defenses improved significantly, with Libero Aleinah Manipon receiving the ball effortlessly, supported by Daena Duran and led by Andrea Rivas. Alas, the game closed with a loss, yet spirits are up, as they strive for improvements for the next games.
 
Aleinah Manipon expressed that she had lots of fun but also noticed the need for improvement. “I was nervous at first, but during the game, I was slowly getting those nerves out.” Franz Ona, a varsity player, said that she felt her lack of preparation for the upcoming game, as she didn’t know what to expect; however, she stated that she will work harder for the next game. “I feel more motivated to improve because now I know the feeling of being inside the court.”
 
During noon, the DBS Men’s Volleyball Varsity arrived with their new white jerseys as they entered.
The gymnasium. Their first game was against the San Felipe Catholic School, and as they warmed up, nerves took over them, being their first ever match. During the first and second sets, the boys fought diligently, yet were affected by how the game was going. In the end, what they met was the striving to be better.
 
Ezekiel Mampo mentioned in their meeting that they will work on their communications and adaptability in court. While in a recent interview with one of the players, Tristan Jacob Meneses, his first game was shared with nervousness as the enemy team was bigger and taller than he was. He also expressed the need to improve the team’s communication and overall attitude while playing the game.
 
Despite opening day challenges, the Bosconians displayed grit and determination on the court. The matches highlighted both their potential and the areas that require improvement. As the 14th ITAMS Invitational Sportsfest continues, the Bosconians remain intent on leaving a strong impression. Don Bosco once said, “If one is to do good, he must have a little courage, be ready for sacrifice, deal affably with all, and never slight anybody. By following this method, I have always had significant success, in fact, marvelous success.” With confidence as a key focus moving forward, the DBS Varsity, with courage, is set on improving and is ready to charge ahead and leave its mark as the competition unfolds. Just goes to show that the path to improvement is to have a little courage to continue, well played Bosconians!
Written by: Adrian Barrios
Editorial Writer for SPARKS