Yesterday afternoon was colored blue, green and white. It was the time for the Ultimate Showdown between the Ateneo de Manila University and the De La Salle University. Aside from the noticeable receding hairlines, gray hairs here and there and the noticeable (understatement of the year) waistlines, one can still feel in the air the Animo that has always been with the legends of the Green Archers who once again donned the green and white jerseys. And yes, even if most of them are considered senior citizens already, they still look like boys on court raging to play the game they loved so much, against their archrival nonetheless. Sure, years have slowed them down or has taken away some of their sparkle but no one can deny that once an Archer, always an Archer. One thing that always stands out in my mind during yesterday’s game is Tonichi Yturri’s moves. That was the first time I ever saw him play and I wasn’t disappointed. He led the Archer legends to their victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles legends. Who would even think that he’s a coach and not a player? Or that Jong Uichico still has it in his blood? And Coach Franz Pumaren can still hit those triples when it’s needed the most? It kinda reminded me of Mac’s three point shots and Jayvee Casio’s as well. For a change, his players got a chance to see their mentor in action. Somehow, it gave me the feeling that after that game, the Archers of today have a new respect for their coach.

I guess I have no need to tell you, my dear readers, that the Archers won over the Eagles. Hmmm……. I guess the winning tradition never fades with age.

After that, there’s the game for the All Stars, or in my own way of interpreting it, the younger Legends. Needless to say, they trampled the Eagles. Now will anyone else still wonder why I cheer for the Archers? One word: EXCELLENCE.

Come July 10, we’ll have another round of the battle between the Green and Blue teams. Who will win? No one knows yet, but one thing’s for sure. It’ll be one hell of a fight. Whatever the outcome will be, the air will still be filled with the ANIMO that has lived on through the years.