MANILA, Philippines - In the UAAP, having an identity is a must, as it is a symbol of a school’s tradition. As the eight member-schools battle it out for sporting supremacy, two universities stand out not only on the court but even outside: the Ateneo de Manila and De La Salle University.
Considered elite educational institutions in the Philippines, these two schools do not only have proud histories and rich sporting traditions, they are also two of the most defined identities in college sports. No wonder they teamed up once again with a brand known for its identity and lifestyle: Adidas.
The world’s leading sports apparel’s aim is to go beyond playing courts and to satisfy every Atenean and La Sallian’s hunger for lifestyle products. This year, Adidas comes up with exclusive apparel lines defining their cultures.
ATENEO @ 150
Ateneo de Manila University is proud to celebrate its sesquicentennial anniversary this year, marking 150 years of educational greatness, the “Ateneo Way.” Adidas patterned its line of jackets, shirts, caps, and bags in celebration with the Atenean community.
“Whenever I wear this, I become even more proud to be an Atenean with 150 years printed on my jacket,” says Lia Cruz. “I feel blessed and honored that I owe what I am right now to Ateneo.”
LA SALLE: ANIMO LIVES ON
De La Salle University has a rich tradition of sporting greatness in the UAAP, having posted the most number of finals appearances in the men’s basketball event in a decade. With their nickname the Green Archers, they always aim for the top; and the Animo spirit in them keeps on burning beyond playing courts and into their respective fields as well.
“Keeping the Animo in me boosts my morale, that’s why I am glad that Adidas came up with a more defined line,” says Mica Abesamis. “The Animo is more than a statement, it is a motivating trait for every La Sallian, a bonding factor for students and alumni.”
Nolet Puno, country manager of Adidas, says the brand’s aim for this year is to go beyond the UAAP. “We want our patrons to not just wear our line every UAAP but to wear it all the time because of its unifying factor — the identity of brotherhood that these schools share. Times change, but the brotherhood remains.”