MGCNL Smashes Expectations in the 2024 PCYAA Badminton Tournament

The MGCNLCA Badminton Team smashed the competition in the 2024 Philippine Ching Yuen Athletics Association (PCYAA) Badminton Tournament held at the MGCNLCA gym last February 17-18, securing the gold for 18U girls, 14U boys, and 14U girls, as well as first runner-up for the 18U boys.

The 18U girls flawlessly defeated all the schools in their bracket, leading to a final match against Jubilee Christian Academy (JCA). The New Lifers clinched a gold medal, ending the match in just two sets.

On the other hand, the 18U boys came so close to the finish line but eventually lost in the finals against JCA in a best of 3 with two singles matches, and one doubles match. 

On the following day, the 14U boys and girls both had their respective matches and breezed through the first few rounds until the finals, which were both against JCA. The 14U boys closed the final doubles game with Lucas Chung and Caleb Tiu joining forces. 

The 14U girls were able to win the finals game with Lexie Siao playing their second singles. Despite the match reaching the third set, Siao finished the game with a win, bringing home the championship title for the team.

After the matches, assistant coach Bless Linaban shared with the team, “Be proud guys, whether [you] win or [lose], you all improved compared to your previous matches in tournaments.” 

The players proved that practice does pay off, and the team will use this experience to bounce back stronger in the succeeding tournaments of the year. 

Participating schools this season include Hope Christian High School, St. Stephen’s High School, Philippine Cultural College, JCA, Saint Jude Catholic School, and MGCNLCA.

18U boys: Andre Aw, Andrew Liu, Rhadley Tan, Rhailey Tan, Jairus Lee

14U boys: Jairus Lee, Lucas Chung, Caleb Tiu, Enrico Chao

18U girls: Brianna See, Isabelle Ngo, Amanda Ching, Ashley Chua, Sharlize Bayot

14U girls: Alessi Chua, Bethany Tan, Sachi Esteban, Cecilia Yue, Lexie Siao