The Far Eastern University (FEU) Chess Team made history in UAAP Season 87 by defending their triple crown with an impressive performance that showcased both talent and determination. The Lady Tamaraws achieved a groundbreaking gold sweep across all boards, cementing their dominance in collegiate chess, while the FEU Diliman Boys and Girls teams continued their three-peat streak in the high school divisions. The tournament concluded last Wednesday at the Adamson University Gymnasium, leaving fans and supporters in awe of FEU’s consistent excellence.
Lady Tamaraws Shine Bright
FEU’s College Women’s Team made headlines with their back-to-back championship win and an unprecedented gold sweep. Woman National Master (WNM) Mhage Gerriahlou Sebastian stole the spotlight, claiming the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award after a stellar performance on Board 1. A sophomore BS Medical Biology student, Sebastian’s victory over Ateneo’s Ma. Elayza Villa sealed her gold medal win and further solidified her legacy as a chess prodigy.
Joining her in the spotlight was WNM Vic Glysen Derotas, who won a gold medal on Board 2, and WNM Franchesca Largo, who secured gold in her rookie season. Other team members, including WNM Mary Joy Tan, WNM Samantha Umayan, and WCNM Rhea Jean Canino, contributed to the team’s sweeping success with gold medals of their own.
FEU Diliman’s High School Dominance
The FEU Diliman Boys and Girls teams continued their reign with a three-peat championship win in both high school divisions. National Master (NM) Oscar Joseph Cantela was named MVP in the Boys' Division, earning a gold medal on Board 1. Teammates NM Lemmuel Jay Adena, Arena Candidate Master (ACM) Joemel Narzabal, and Arena FIDE Master (AFM) Ritchie James Abeleda all secured perfect scores and gold medals, reflecting the depth of talent within the team.
In the Girls' Division, Woman FIDE Master (WFM) Ruelle Canino led the charge with a flawless campaign, earning MVP honors and a gold medal on Board 1. She was supported by an outstanding roster, including WFM April Joy Claros and rookies WNM Franiel Angela Magpily and Lyn Getubig, who all clinched golds.
College Men Secure Podium Finish
In the College Men’s Division, the FEU Tamaraws claimed a hard-fought bronze medal after an intense battle with DLSU. Freshman FIDE Master (FM) Mark Jay Bacojo shone as the division’s Rookie of the Year (ROY), earning a silver medal on Board 1. Other notable performances included NM Istraelito Rilloraza and NM Christian Marcelo Olaybal, who also brought home silver medals.
Guided by Excellence
FEU’s triumphs are a testament to the players’ dedication and the leadership of their coaching team, headed by Grandmaster (GM) Jayson Gonzales. With strategic insights from Women’s Grandmaster (WGM) Janelle Mae Frayna and the support of Coaches NM John Jasper Laxamana and WNM Enrica Armenta, the team displayed exceptional preparation and skill.
A Legacy of Success
The FEU Chess Team’s remarkable season is also a reflection of the university’s commitment to sports excellence, supported by FEU Chairman Aurelio Montinola, President Juan Miguel Montinola, and Athletics Director Mark Oliver Molina. Their unwavering support has laid the foundation for these extraordinary achievements.
Summary of Awards
Team Awards:
HS Girls: Champion (3-peat)
HS Boys: Champion (3-peat)
College Women: Champion (Back-to-back)
College Men: 2nd Runner-Up
Special Awards:
MVPs: WNM Mhage Gerriahlou Sebastian, WFM Ruelle Canino, NM Oscar Joseph Cantela
ROYs: FM Mark Jay Bacojo, ACM Joemel Narzabal
Gold Medalists:
WNM Mhage Gerriahlou Sebastian, WNM Vic Glysen Derotas, WNM Franchesca Largo, WNM Mary Joy Tan, WNM Samantha Umayan, WCNM Rhea Jean Canino, WFM Ruelle Canino, WFM April Joy Claros, WNM Franiel Angela Magpily, Lyn Getubig, NM Oscar Joseph Cantela, NM Lemmuel Jay Adena, ACM Joemel Narzabal, AFM Ritchie James Abeleda
Silver Medalists:
WNM Kate Nicole Ordizo, Ann Beatrice Bombales, NM Franklin Loyd Andes, FM Mark Jay Bacojo, NM Istraelito Rilloraza, NM Christian Marcelo Olaybal
Bronze Medalist:
FM John Merill Jacutina
Moving Forward
FEU’s stellar performance in UAAP Season 87 is a testament to their hard work, talent, and determination. As they celebrate this monumental achievement, the team looks forward to defending their titles and continuing their legacy of chess excellence in the seasons to come. Congratulations to the FEU Chess Team for an unforgettable season!
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