4th FCA caging unfolds this pm

CEBU, Philippines -  The fourth edition of the annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Basketball League will kick off at 1 pm today at the old Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu old campus gym along General Maxilom Avenue, this city.

A total of 18 teams will see action in the two-month tilt backstopped by Psalm Property, Eagles Vantage, T & G Omnia+, Apple Tree Suites, and M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala.

Strutting their wares in the 34-under category are defending champion CCF of coach Albert Alocillo, Praise Cathedral, Blessed Hope Brothers Keepers of coach Caleb Gawangon, Cross Pointe All-Stars, and MSSI Jr. Ballers in Bracket A and CFGA Kingdom Builders of coach Abel Bungcaras, Living Word (LW)-South, BUCCI Zealots, Mount of Olives Spartans, Life Giver, and Faith Tabernacle Eagles of Marcial Baluarte in Bracket B.

They will play in a single round robin format with the top four per bracket advancing into the quarterfinals. The remaining four teams will then face off in the crossover semifinals, with the winners slugging it out for the championship.

The remaining six entries will mix it up in the 35-above age group. These are reigning title-holder LW-International Bible Institute (IBI) of Pastor Mel Caparros, House of Hope (HOH) Slingers, LW-South, MCOF Basketbolista, Christian Workers Basketball Association (CWBA) and guest team FCA R12 Coaches led by coach Felix "Donbel" Belano, Jr. and Vernini Tangarorang.

They will also take on each other in a single round robin during the classification phase. The top four will proceed into the crossover semis wherein the winners will earn the right to fight for the title in a winner-take-all affair.

Before the hardcourt hostilities begin, a simple opening ceremony will take place to be graced by FCA Philippines National Director Fr. Gary Visitacion.

"This sports endeavor aims to encourage athletes and coaches to be away from drugs and other vices and bring them to a life of purpose and relationship with Jesus Christ and His Word," said tournament commissioner Lawrence "Tata" Merced.— EBV (BANAT NEWS)