It’s tee time in the UAAP, and the University of the Philippines is heading to the brand new golf tournament with a swinging addition.
Junior Philippine Golf Tour standout Angel Banez is the newest Fighting Maroon, standing at the fore of State U’s quest to rule over the just-introduced event for UAAP Season 88.
“UP has a strong championship culture in sports and this dedication to excellence is likely to extend to the UP Varsity Golf Team (VGT),” she answered when asked why she decided to commit to UP. “As golf gains more traction in the UAAP, the VGT has the opportunity to add to UP’s legacy in sports.”
“I feel incredibly proud to be part of the first wave of student-athletes who get to pave the way for future generations of UP golfers. This is not just about competing, it’s about putting our University and Philippine collegiate golf on the map.”
The now-age 18 Banez started playing golf five years ago and grew to idolize the likes of Filipina stars Bianca Pagdanganan and Yuka Saso, as well as legends Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.
She hopes that she is just the first of many more golf recruits coming not just to Diliman, but to the UAAP as a whole, so as to strengthen the sport from the grassroots level.
“Golf being included in the UAAP is not just a milestone for the sport, it’s a dream come true for me and so many young golfers in the Philippines,” she said. “Sometimes, this sport can sometimes feel like a sport only for a few, but I’m hoping this year will change it all.”
“By being part of a prestigious league like the UAAP, golf gains more visibility among young people, encouraging sporting leaders to develop programs, build facilities, and support aspiring golfers who might not have otherwise had the opportunity to pursue the sport competitively.”
The Season 88 Golf Tournament tees off on May 11 and runs until May 14 at the Tagaytay Midlands Golf & Country Club. It will be a demonstration event for its maiden edition.
