Ball is life—Filipinos are a living proof of this saying!
From inter-barangay competitions, PBA games to NBA games, Filipinos wouldn’t miss any match.
This is why Noona Sports, a non-government organization based in Manila, saw the opportunity to support young aspiring athletes at the barangay level by providing them coaching, equipment, and the chance to compete professionally. They also work closely with local schools and community organizations to identify talented athletes who may not have the means to pursue their dreams on their own.
Chairman Ariel Dakis of Barangay 732, District 5, Manila, the first barangay official who supported the advocacies of the organization, recognizes the transformative potential of such initiatives. For him, these events serve as an avenue for personal growth, honing talents, and refining skills, all within the realm of sportsmanship.
“Ang Noona Sports ay nakatulong sa mga manlalaro dito sa aming komunidad na maging isang mahusay na manlalaro sa pamamagitan ng physical health, leadership at social interactions. Ang mga manlalaro ay nakatulong din para ma-inspire ang mga tao na nakapaligid sa kanila para sa mas magandang komunidad,” he said.
Speaking from experience, 16-year-old Jonas Masbate, MVP of the Junior Division from Taguig expressed gratitude to the non-government organization for helping them showcase and improve their basketball skills.
“Napakalaki po ng naitulong ng Noona Sports sa paglalaro ng basketball. Tinulungan nila ang aming lugar na magkaroon ng liga at nabigyan ng oportunidad na makapaglaro at isa po ako sa mga batang nangangarap at nabigyan ng pagkakataon na makapaglaro at naipamalas ko ang aking kakayahan,” Masbate said.
Currently, Noona Sports is conducting basketball leagues in Manila, Taguig City, and Valenzuela City, with the goal to expand their program to the rest of the country.
Noona Sports doesn’t just end at facilitating competitive play. They’re also actively engaged in the rehabilitation of basketball courts in different communities.
The organization also recently released a documentary called “Kwentong Noona,” which focuses on featuring stories of real players in hopes of them being recognized and helped by other companies who share the same values with Noona Sports.
Additionally, the organization is also active on social media to share basketball league and community stories in order to attract more individuals and companies who care about basketball, youth, and community development.
With their initiatives, Noona Sports is championing not only the sport but also the holistic growth of talented but underprivileged athletes. — Janelle Lorzano
