UAAP launches varsity channel
A testament to the league’s popularity, the UAAP’s first-ever Varsity channel was recently launched, giving fans the option to access UAAP content 24/7. In partnership with Cignal TV, the channel started airing last September 8.
The channel’s launch is part of the five-and-a-half-year deal between the UAAP and Cignal TV signed last October 2020, following the end of the league’s partnership with ABS-CBN Sports after two decades.
The channel offers an archive of historic UAAP games, including marquee events such as basketball, volleyball, football, and cheer dance. The UAAP varsity channel also plans to launch original shows featuring current student-athletes and some of the tournament’s most notable legends. Moreover, once the UAAP resumes play, the Varsity channel is set to broadcast the most complete number of live games and UAAP sporting events, as well as repeat telecasts.
Fans can access the groundbreaking sports channel via Cignal TV channel 263 (HD), SatLite channel 55, and Cignal Play. For more updates, fans can also follow the UAAP Varsity Channel’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Photo collage by Daryl D. Sy.
Ateneo Chess Team: Continuing the competition
DESPITE THE pandemic, the Ateneo Chess Team (ACT) remains active and keeps the spirit of competition alive virtually. Given the non-contact nature of the sport, the ACT has recently joined various online chess tournaments.
Last February, the ACT was crowned overall champion in the first Jesuit Athletic Meet (JAM) Online Chess Team Tournament. The two-day virtual tournament featured chess teams from Jesuit schools in the country such as Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Ateneo de Davao University, and Xavier University. The Blue Eagles finished the tournament with a clean 6-0 tournament record.
The ACT also joined the first International Chess Federation (FIDE) World University Online Chess championships. Hosted by the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, the competition consists of the top university-based chess teams around the world. Proving they belong among the world’s best universities, the ACT placed in the 38-43rd ranking among 190 schools, with a final point tally of 26.5.
With more competition experience, the ACT now looks to continue its momentum once the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) resumes and brings home the elusive podium finish that they have yet to accomplish.
“With the strong members we have now and our new talented rookies, [the Ateneo community] can expect the chess team to operate at a higher level come the next UAAP,” mentioned ACT team captain Jeeves De Veyra.
