Team
Season 79 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) saw the Ateneo Women’s Taekwondo Team end an 18-year medal drought with a third place finish on the podium. This season, the team is looking to outdo itself with an even more successful campaign on the mat.
Team Captain
Gem Sandoval
Now entering her fifth year on the team, Gem Sandoval finds herself fulfilling the role of team captain in Season 80. Sandoval, who has been practicing the sport since third grade, hopes to lead the team by example with the help of her fellow veterans as they fight tooth and nail for a better finish.
“After last season, it’s looking good for us because we finally had a podium finish after 18 years. We’re hoping to continue on that.”
Pauline Lopez
Having competed in numerous international competitions, Season 79 Rookie of the Year Pauline Lopez is one of the most seasoned members of the team despite only being a sophomore. This season, Lopez remains confident in her squad’s capabilities with the Lady Eagles no longer being known as underdogs.
Noleen Lagnada
Supersenior Noleen Lagnada returns once more as one of the team’s most crucial cogs for UAAP Season 80. Lagnada, who knocked a bronze in her freshman season, is looking to conclude her final UAAP season with a podium finish before retiring her wings as a Lady Eagle.
Danielle Morales
A student of the sport since the age of three, Danielle Morales finds herself as the team’s lone rookie. Although the Saint Pedro Poveda College recruit admits that she expects much tougher competition at the collegiate level, she is eager to support and contribute to her team’s cause.
Coach’s Corner
Elmer Rafael
Coach Elmer Rafael focuses on conditioning the players during the offseason, even training with various UAAP and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) teams.
“For the women’s team, we have already proven that we could do it by beating some of the top elite teams like University of Santo Tomas. For this season, our goal is to become the champions.”
