A Game for a Cause

The Diocesan Clergy of the Archdiocese of Davao participated in the 6th Spring Rain Global Missions Cup last July 17–20 at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish, Cebu City. This basketball event is one way of helping every diocese and religious community fulfill their advocacies. There were nine (nine) groups that participated in this mission cup. Six (6) diocesan teams Ubuntu (San Carlos), Davao Agilas, Survivors Clergy, Pari It Akean, Virac Bicol, Antique Clergy (Cascados) and three (3) religious (Agustinos Recoletos, Passionists, Camillians). Each had their own advocacy: seminary chapel renovations, missions in Asia and Africa, putting up seminaries and retirement houses, seminary formation, health care, clergy welfare and development, and care for the sick and elderly priests.

It was not a simple basketball tournament. It was a philanthropy tournament, where they did not only play for themselves, but for their mission. By participating in the game, both diocesan and religious priests connected and communicated as brothers both inside and outside the court, demonstrating that friendship and fraternity are maintained even while they compete.

Few truly know the hows and whys of playing basketball. But a lot of people can observe that basketball has always been the favorite sport of many priests. It is where they can express themselves, surge, and divert their attention from the hectic schedule they have. Moreover, it is always good to see that priests maintain their well-being and condition, for there are a lot of far-flung places and GKKs to be preached at and visited.

As championship grew close, players began to be tense, shoes touching the court were ear-splitting, dampness was felt and camaraderie as brothers was apparent.

The Davao Agilas has seemingly outstripped the strength of the Ubuntu priests based on the beginning play, but still, the Ubuntu priests won the Championship game with a total result of Sixty-six (66) points against sixty-two (62) points for the Davao Agilas. After the game, the awarding followed, in which the Davao Agilas won as First Runner-Up with the help of Coach Jomer Rubi, former player from the PBA Tanduay Team.

Rev. Fr. Johnny A. Autida won the most 3-pointers in the game, and Rev. Fr. René Ribac and Rev. Fr. Ruperto Jamili III was choosen among of the Mythical Five.

On July 30, 2023, a thanksgiving dinner was held at the Bishop’s residence as Archbishop of Davao, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D showed his utmost gratitude to the team. As much as we wanted to go to Cebu and watch, he only prayed and hoped that Davao Agilas bagged the prize. However, it was evident that his excellency, was proud of how the Agilas conquered the 6th Spring Rain Global Missions Cup. (Sem. Ranie Boy L. Pamplona)