THE Philippine Table Tennis Federation Inc. (PTTF) is staging the fourth edition of the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge from August 28 to 30 at Home Court, Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Paranaque City.
The tournament has drawn participants not just from UAAP and NCAA schools, but also from UCAL, CESAFI, and even students from the National Academy of Sports, establishing itself as the country’s leading table tennis grassroots competition.
PTTF casts wider net
Just like in past years, the tournament will feature collegiate and high school divisions.
"We're very proud of how the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge has grown over the past four years," PTTF president Ting Ledesma said. "What started as an opportunity to bring together the country's best student-athletes has now become an annual tradition on the Philippine table tennis calendar.
Last year, University of Santo Tomas collected seven gold medals which included the collegiate men’s singles championship won by Eljey Tormis, and the high school boys’ singles title taken by Jebb Datahan.
"Our goal has always been to provide student-athletes with a platform where they can showcase their talents," said PTTF secretary general Pong Ducanes. "We hope this tournament opens doors for them to earn athletic scholarships through table tennis, whether in UAAP, NCAA, UCAL, or CESAFI schools.
"Beyond college, we also hope that many of these young players will eventually represent our national team in international competitions."
The tournament is supported by Huaching Foundation, the Philippine Sports Commission, Home Court Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Topcoms Marketing Inc., Mizuno Philippines, Cara Celine Dormtel, Gold Cross Security Agency, and Best Options Assistance Inc., along with Dino Jalandoni, Bombit Silva, and Eric Ongkauco.
Huaching Foundation founder William Yap is glad that their support over the past several years in support of the next generation of Philippine table tennis players is bearing fruit.
“The future of Philippine table tennis begins with our youth, and we're happy to continue supporting a tournament that gives them opportunities to compete, improve, and pursue their dreams. We look forward to seeing the tournament continue to grow for many more years,” Yap said.
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