The 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sportsfest kicked off on December 16 with energy and excitement, showcasing the grit and determination of athletes across Western Visayas.
Central Philippines State University (CPSU) dominated the 3×3 basketball tournament, clinching gold after a thrilling match against Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), whose valiant efforts secured them the silver medal.
“We practiced hard for this, and seeing our efforts pay off is truly fulfilling,” CPSU’s team captain said, echoing sentiments of unity and perseverance emphasized by their coach.
Meanwhile, the host school, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), celebrated a historic victory when Justine Franco won their first gold medal in the men’s high jump.
This triumph electrified the crowd and filled the ISUFST community with pride.
The opening day set the stage for an exhilarating week of competition, featuring intense matchups across multiple disciplines.
In men’s basketball, NISU took an early lead with two consecutive wins.
In the women’s division, West Visayas State University (WVSU), ISUFST, and NISU locked horns in fierce competition.
Baseball, softball, volleyball, and football saw strong performances from powerhouse teams like WVSU, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), and Guimaras State University (GSU).
In beach volleyball and sepak takraw, standout performances from Southern Iloilo Polytechnic State University (SUNN), ISAT U, and the University of Antique (UA) kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Throughout the day, athletes and fans broke barriers and forged new friendships, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship amid intense action.
As the sun set on an incredible opening day, the promise of more intense matches and inspirational moments reverberated across the venues.
The cornerstone values of RSCUAA 2024—peace, inclusivity, and well-being—shone through as students from 13 state universities and colleges competed with heart and resolve.
“The games are as much about grit as they are about glory,” organizers said, as anticipation built for the remaining three days of competition.
This year’s RSCUAA carries special significance as it marks the first time the event is being hosted at ISUFST.
For Negros Occidental schools, the event is particularly meaningful, as it will be their final RSCUAA following the passage of the Negros Island Region Act.
The stakes are high as universities vie not only for medals but also for institutional pride and regional honor.
The RSCUAA 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of athletic excellence, camaraderie, and the unyielding spirit of sportsmanship. (Photo courtesy of RSCUAA PR Committee/Text by Russel Yamit and Lea Grace Edong)
