The Negros Occidental Provincial Government, through the Provincial Sports Office, recently organized the first-ever Governor’s Cup Beach Soccer Championship on November 25-27 in Sipalay City where the girls from Pontevedra were named champions of the tournament.
The inaugural beach soccer tournament kicked off on the beautiful beach of Sipalay where the Pontevedra – Pamplona team cruised to victory against Cadiz City Rushkals after netting two goals resulting in a 2-0 scoresheet.
Landing in second place was the Cadiz City Rushkals, following the team’s defeat against Pontevedra. Sagay City, on the other hand, ranked third in the competition.
Joyce Gemberva, Khey Balateria, and Alixa May Casi of Team Pontevedra nabbed the Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper, and Most Valuable Player recognitions, respectively. Cadiz City’s Joy Mantunding earned the Best Midfielder title, while Alija Antoinette Lacson of Sagay City got the Best Striker award. All the winners received medals and trophies.
A total of ten teams participated in the 3-day tournament, including San Carlos City, Sagay City, Cadiz City (PPFFAC), Cadiz City (Rushkals), One Silay, Bata Tigers, Pontevedra – A, Pontevedra – B, Himamaylan City, and the Municipality of Ilog. There was only one category for the competition – the women’s open.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Sports Office wanted to commend the City of Sipalay for hosting the tournament. During the opening ceremony, the city’s local officials showed their support and attended the event. Sipalay City Sports Coordinator Joel Paderog gave the welcome address.
Former Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Member and Executive Assistant III Fraem Mediodia, SP members Ulysses Hisona and Cheche Alejano gave special messages on behalf of their city mayor, Maria Gina Lizares.*
