TEAM CAPTAIN
Axel Ngui
Tried and tested by the waters of competitions overseas, senior swimmer Axel Ngui will once again lead the team’s voyage towards a third consecutive crown.
“It feels great to be the captain again, [and] that they have given me a chance to lead the team to another possible championship,” Ngui says, “I’ll try to lead by example and be here every day to push everyone to do their best.”
RETURNING VETERANS
Aldo Batungbacal
Recently competing in the 18th ASEAN University Games, former Rookie of the Year Aldo Batungbacal joins the quest for glory. After making a splash two years ago, the breaststroke specialist could again send waves with a strong performance.
Eman Dapat
Fresh off a term of service representing his country in the pool, prized San Beda recruit Eman Dapat returns to action this season. The formidable distance swimmer will be a valuable engine in the Eagles’ arsenal attempt to defend the throne.
Jessie Lacuna
The renowned Olympian and two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Jessie Lacuna is now back in Ateneo to secure his third MVP award and extend his gold medal streak to 21 this season.
NEW RECRUITS
Miggy Arellano
Season 78 Juniors MVP Miggy Arellano makes his senior division debut after a golden run in high school. A product of the Ateneo juniors system, Arellano harbors valuable experience, having sported the country’s colors on numerous occasions.
Jethro Chua
The prized addition to the arsenal of the blue tankers is national team player Jethro Chua. The freestyler has been a consistent qualifier of the G-League nationals and Palarong Pambansa and delegate in the Southeast Asian Age Group competition. Chua has also made waves in the Asian Youth Games 2013 and World Shortcourse Championships 2015..
COACHS CORNER
Candice Esguerra-Federiso
“Expect the men’s team to give a good competition plus get as [many] medals and records as possible. Having Axel and Jessie [on] the team is already an advantage, plus of course a solid core group and the freshies. The men’s team will be have a good season ahead.”