AN INSPIRING show of school spirit electrified the Ateneo community who once again gathered at the College Covered Courts to celebrate the annual Cheer Rally yesterday, August 30.

Assistant Director for Varsity Development Coach LA Mumar,  led the invocation to begin the night, praying for an athletic year full of “united” victories.

The event’s theme, commemorating the 85th anniversary of the composition of the fight song, “Blue Eagle, the King,” was highlighted throughout the celebration, from the presentation theme to even the attire of the presenters.

Former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) correspondents Allison Co and Julia Vargas served as hosts, with Marc Marasigan and Katsy Lee as the event’s DJs. Each team took the stage to the DJs’ vibrant and energetic mix as they introduced themselves to the crowd.

As the reigning eight-peat champions, the Men’s Swimming Team capped off the team callouts, with Vice President for Mission Integration Benjamin Gerardo Tolosa Jr. PhD delivering his opening remarks afterward.

In his speech, Tolosa honored the Blue Eagles and the Blue Babble Battalion for their unwavering dedication to fight for the Blue and White. “Beyond the scores, it’s about staying faithful and true,” he said.

Ushering the second half of the esteemed cheer rally event, the Blue Babble Battalion brought back Ateneo’s most iconic school cheers.

Halikinu, Rhumba Yell, Fabilioh, Blue Eagle Spelling, and many more chants animated the compact Covered Courts crowd, rallying the Ateneo collective to cheer for their one and only beloved school.

At the event’s conclusion, University President Roberto “Bobby” Yap, SJ took center stage to reinvigorate the student body’s school spirit one last time. Yap emphasized the ability of sports to reinforce virtues such as camaraderie and sportsmanship for magis-seeking Ateneans.

“In Ateneo de Manila [University], sports is more than a game; it is a powerful force that unites our community,” the President added. Building on his sentiments, Yap wished all the Atenean teams a fantastic season and concluded his speech by exclaiming, “Go Ateneo! One Big Fight!”

To kick off UAAP Season 87, the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team is set to clash against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on September 7, Saturday, at 6:00 P.M. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.