Despite finishing 3rd over-all in last year’s UAAP season, the University of the Philippines still considers itself an underdog as it enters the collegiate tournament’s 74th year.

UP Diliman Chancellor Caesar Saloma. Photo by Joshua Mark Dalupang

“As the only publicly-funded member university in the UAAP, we do not have enough financial resources to purchase new sports equipment and supplies that the other member universities have”, said UP Diliman Chancellor Caesar Saloma during the university’s pep rally.

But this should not prevent athletes from living up to the school’s motto, said Saloma, as he urged them to “pursue excellence always with honor and play by the rules.”

UP's volleyball team puts the groove on stage during the pep rally. Photo by Joshua Mark Dalupang

Hundreds of students, faculty, guests, and alumni in attendance at the College of Science were treated to performances from athletes and UP’s various performing groups

“You’ll see a new team this year,” said Mike Silungan, guard/forward of the men’s basketball team.

UP Fighting Maroon Mike Silungan. Photo by Joshua Mark Dalupang

College of Human Kinetics Student Council Chairperson Fidel Ballesteros, meanwhile, called for a strong Maroon presence during games of UP’s athletes.

“Iba yung feeling na nakikita mo yung UP students na nasa crowd, nasa bleachers, sa seats na nakapangalan UP, iba ang feeling na nandoon lahat,” said Ballesteros, who played judo in the UAAP last year.

He also added that seeing the crowd helps athletes fight to win.”Because of the crowd, we get high spirits, we get motivation,” said Ballesteros.

Except in Season 72, UP has stayed in the top three since UST started its over-all championship streak.

UAAP Season 74 opens shop with a grand opening ceremony on July 9, Saturday, at the Marikina Sporta Complex.