AFTER BAGGING 532 total points, the Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion was awarded an overall eighth place following an engaging performance in the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 Cheerdance Competition (CDC). The event was held earlier today at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in the City of Pasay.
The team accumulated 57 points in tumbling, 61 points in stunts, 65 points in tosses, 51 points in pyramids, and 312 points in dance. However, the squad was deducted 14 points due to errors made in their routine. Owing to the increase in tumbling and dancing maneuvers, this year’s performance improved considerably from the previous year’s 502.5.
According to Head Coach Justice Gimeno, the key objective of their routine was for spectators to bask in the classic tunes of their performance. Hence, the Katipunan-based squad revived the zeal of previous Super Bowl halftime shows into the UAAP mats with the theme, #SuperbaBowl.
The Blue Babble Battalion set foot into the arena sporting white, hooded attires inspired by the hazmat suit-clad dancers during the 2023 Super Bowl halftime performance. Before shifting into initial formation, the routine began with a rallying drum beat and a sequence of coordinated stunts. Afterward, the Blue Eagles demonstrated their battling spirit by grooving to a medley of hits from the halftime spectacle singers Rihanna, Bruno Mars, and Katy Perry.
Despite a few stumbles and missteps in the performance, the battalion effectively capitalized on lively choreography. By the end, a sea of blue and white morphed into a kaleidoscope of summer hues as they danced with beach balls to Katy Perry’s timeless single “California Gurls.” To further involve the crowd in the routine, Atenean audience members were encouraged to shout, “Where the grass is really greener!” after hearing the iconic lyrics, “I know a place.”
Post-performance, Gimeno voiced a range of emotions but showed unwavering gratification for the battalions’ dedication and sacrifice. “Nakita ko silang nagpeperform na linalaban nila hanggang dulo,” expressed the head coach.
(I saw them performing where they fight until the very end.)
“Sa performance nila, isa lang masasabi ko: guys, good job! I’m so proud of you,” added Gimeno.
The Blue Eagles, who fielded a rookie-heavy team this season, also mentioned their intention to prioritize exposure during the CDC press conference last November 29. Nevertheless, Team Captain Julia Tulagan asserted that their perseverance sets them apart despite fielding a young team.
Additionally, despite the challenges of recruitment and the pressure of the competition, Tulagan says that the best part of competing in the UAAP is the Atenean populace.
“As someone who has been performing, it’s a great feeling when the community is proud of what you are doing on the mats,” expressed the skipper.
Final Rankings:
1. FEU: 702.5 points
2. NU: 697 points
3. UST: 684 points
4. ADU: 665 points
5. UP: 602 points
6. UE: 559 points
7. DLSU: 555.5 points
8. Ateneo: 532 points
