From July 14th to July 19th, the Kalipay Big Girls competed in the Innagural Sportsfest hosted by the Capuchin Holy Family Home in Talisay City, Bacolod. The Sportsfest consisted of popular sports including volleyball and basketball, but also had traditional Pinoy games, flag racing, and a cheer dance competition.
Six organizations, including Kalipay, participated in the event: CAMELEON, Capuchin Holy Family Home, HOME OF HOPE, San Antonio Formation and Enhancement Center (SAFEC), and Virlanie FAITH. In preparation for the Sportsfest, the Kalipay Big Girls practiced every evening for 3 weeks. “Before we started practicing, the girls did not know how to play basketball very well, but the preparation definitely contributed to their success at the Sportsfest,” Kalipay 16-year-old boy “Nat-nat” said.
Some of the highlights of the Sportsfest included a Championship in flag raising and the Amazing Race, a 1st place finish in basketball, and a 3rd place title in volleyball. Kalipay also had two girls named to the “Mythical 5” team, an honor given to the most outstanding basketball players by position, “Erika” and “Rosanna”. Beyond the sports-related accomplishments, the girls established and strengthened relationships with fellow organizations.
Home manager Gelime Fia Lumawag said, “The Sportsfest was helpful to the kids because it taught them sportsmanship, and how to be a leader, and it showed them that being on a team does not always result in a win or a loss. What’s important is what you learn from being on a team. Also, sports provide both physical and mental development.
Regarding the social aspect of the competition, she said, “It was great that the Sportsfest offered social interaction with other girls and people that they know. It’s a good way to teach them how to start a conversation and interact with others.”
The Sportsfest was deemed a great success by everyone in the Kalipay family, and many of the girls are excited to participate again next year. Sportsfest participant and 12-year-old “Len-Len” said, “The Sportsfest was a great way to practice my favorite sport, volleyball, and make new friends with the other children. I’m really looking forward to playing in the event again next year!”
by: Volunteer Julian Brown
