Team
Despite a last place finish in Season 79, the Ateneo Women’s Chess Team showed significant signs of development by managing to bump up their season-end score from the previous year. The team hopes to continue their improvement as they take Season 80 by storm with higher expectations set for their squad.
Team Captain
Jasmine Principe
In her final year, Jasmine Principe heads the Lady Eagles as a figure of leadership and the voice of command in Season 80. Hailing from Sto. Niño Academy, Principe is armed with years of experience to guide her team through the collegiate chess boards, as the Lady Eagles embark on a quest for redemption.
“This year I have to lead by example as this is going to be a tough season for us. They have to see in me and in my games that we have a chance to become better this season.”
Aryanne De Ocampo
Recruited in her sophomore year of college, Faith Christian Science High School graduate Aryanne De Ocampo aims for new heights. Playing in her final year, De Ocampo carries the flag to inspire her teammates with a positive outlook for a new season.
Jillian Feliciano
Coming off her rookie year, Jillian Feliciano has learned to trust her natural instincts and abilities in the game-having grown accustomed to the mental challenge of collegiate chess. The veteran wields confidence strengthened by vigorous training, which will serve as a major factor in the quest for redemption.
Janela Salazar
Hailing from Holy Spirit Academy of Malolos, Janela Salazar seized the opportunity to represent Ateneo for the first time in her three-year college stay. Guided by only a year of competitive play, Salazar will step out of her comfort zone and fight to keep up with the competition in the first test of her mettle.
Coach’s Corner
Yves Ranola
Beginning his career as the Lady Eagles’ mentor in 2016, International Master Yves Ranola offers guidance and knowledge in his third year of coaching. Ranola hopes to build on the visible improvement of the team from last season, having trained his squad to face obstacles head on and never give up fighting as they open their season.
“We will continue fighting and we will not back down on any challenges. So I expect my players to play their hearts out every single game and just hope for the best.”
