Team
The Ateneo Men’s Judo team fell just shy of the crown last season, with many of the team members making it to the finals but ultimately ending their run with silver. Bannered by a large graduating batch, the team hopes to power through with persistence and perseverance to finally strike gold on the mat.
Team Captain
Rafael Cadiente
In his final year, Rafael Cadiente leads the Blue Eagles with a more vocal disposition. Coming off last season’s second place finish, the black belter hopes to break through the roof in Season 80 and intends to inspire and motivate his team in order to keep their their morale high all through their journey to the top.
“What I really want to do is [to] set a mark on how everyone should train like…train harder. [And] when we have free time, just focus on judo or aral.”
Mon Tuazon
Second-in-command is veteran and co-captain Mon Tuazon. Sharing the struggle of leadership, Tuazon’s greatest achievements go past victories and medals, as he considers his greatest achievement to be helping his team improve. With a positive mentality, Tuazon is more than ready to return to the scene and snag the gold.
Alfred Querubin
A gold medalist last season, Alfred Querubin has his eyes on the crown that eluded the squad in Season 79. Ready to fight for his squad’s claim to the Judo throne, the veteran enters the fray this year with his head held high. Querubin is confident that Season 80 may very well be an opportunity for redemption.
Daniel Uychoco
With the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) being his trial by fire, Daniel Uychoco begins his rookie year with excitement. Given the responsibility of carrying the fire of Ateneo Judo’s new generation, the stalwart will give the team and the school his all.
Joerl Abrenica
Seasoned by two and a half years of prior experience, Joerl Abrenica takes his talents from La Salle Greenhills to Ateneo as he enters UAAP Season 80 as a rookie. Well aware that the UAAP is a completely different scene, Abrenica fights to make a name for himself in the college mats this season.
Coach’s Corner
Gilbert Ramirez
Coming from a runner-up season, the Blue Eagles will rely on coach Gilbert Ramirez to guide them on their journey to the gold that eluded their grasp last season. With his unmatched expertise, the vision and experience of Ramirez as a college mentor will be a vital factor for the Blue and White.
“Kahit kulang-kulang ‘yung weight division natin, sigurado naman kami na lamang na lamang tayo sa puso at determination (Even if we are lacking in our weight division, I’m sure we have more determination and heart).”
