Joey Del Rosario, Giro Gito, Rylle Bernardin. Photographer: Coach Garry Domingo
2nd row: Zia Ranjo, Bella Alcazar, Qaantreuelle Wangkay, Anika Eugenio, Arianna Carandang, Ira Ong Amboy, Anja Ignacio
Photographer: Coach Garry Domingo
The DLSZ High School (HS) Swimming team also known as the “Junior Tankers” achieved podium finishes in the UAAP Season 87 Championship held last November 17-20, 2024 at New Clark City.
The team bagged a total of 5 individual medals, 24 relay medals, the HS Boys’ 2nd Runner-up trophy, and Rookie of the Year. Despite being the smallest team in the league, comprising only 14 members, the Junior Tankers demonstrated remarkable determination and skill, ultimately placing third overall in the boys’ category. This triumph was marked by a celebratory moment on the podium, where the team members received their trophies, underscoring the value of their efforts over numerical limitations.
Team Awards
2nd Runner Up, UAAP Season 87 HS Boys Swimming Championship
Individual awards
- Ysabela Jean Alcazar (DLSZ 2025) – 2 Silvers and 1 Bronze medals
- Ira Mae Ong Amboy (DLSZ 2028) – 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal
- Enzo Joaquin Aquino (DLSZ 2026)
- Rylle Gabriel Bernardino (DLSZ 2028) – 1 Bronze medal
- Arianna Maria Carandang (DLSZ 2027) – 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal
- Anisha Eunice Caluya (DLSZ 2025) – 2 Silver medals
- Ben Matthew Calisin (DLSZ 2027) – 2 Bronze medals
- Joey Del Rosario (DLSZ 2025) – 3 Bronze medals
- Amielle Anika Eugenio (DLSZ 2028) – 1 Silver medal
- Giro Don Rafael Gito (DLSZ 2027) – 1 Bronze medal
- Anja Francine Ignacio (DLSZ 2028) – 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal
- Melek Polline Pamuk (DLSZ 2029) – 1 Silver medal
- Nino Angelo Pugay (DLSZ 2028) – 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal
- Zia Noele Ranjo (DLSZ 2025) – 3 Silvers and 1 Bronze medal
- Juan Carlos Tabug (DLSZ 2025) – 2 Bronze medals
- Qaantruelle Light Wangkay (DLSZ 2025) – 1 Silver medal
Niño Angelo Pugay (DLSZ 2028), Rookie of the Year
A notable achievement of this season was the recognition of Niño Angelo Pugay (DLSZ 2028). At the tender age of 16, Niño emerged as a standout swimmer, capturing a silver medal in the 200-meter freestyle and being awarded the Rookie of the Year UAAP Season 87 trophy. This accolade signifies the promising future that awaits the Junior Tankers.
The team’s success is a testament to the collective efforts of its members. Daily training under the guidance of Coach Garry Domingo and Assistant Coach Luis Virgil transformed the swimmers into accomplished athletes. Additionally, the team organized the DLSZ Invitational Swim Meet in October 2024, raising funds to support their essential needs. This initiative, coupled with the generous support from parents and benefactors, ensured that the swimmers had access to the necessary uniforms, swimming gear, and nutritious sustenance, fostering their confidence and enhancing their performance during competitions.
To acknowledge the swimmers’ contributions, the team organized an awarding ceremony during their year-end party. This ceremony not only celebrated their hard work but also served as a motivational tool, inspiring them to continue striving for excellence.
With another successful season behind them, the DLSZ Junior Tankers will continue to etch their names in the annals of swimming history. Their unwavering passion, dedication, teamwork, and the support of their school and families will undoubtedly lead them to unparalleled achievements and honors.
Animo La Salle!