The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Technobees cemented their dominance in the 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sports Festival in Western Visayas, claiming their fifth consecutive overall championship in a closely contested battle.
Capiz State University (CapSU) Stingrays finished a commendable second, edging West Visayas State University (WVSU) West Marals in a competition showcasing the best of Western Visayas athletics.
The RSCUAA VI 2024 Sports Festival and Conference hosted for the first time by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) in Barotac Nuevo town was an extraordinary celebration of talent, teamwork, and determination.
The region, in which it has the participation of Negros Occidental for the last time due to the Negros Island Region (NIR) Act, came alive for six vibrant days over 42 events in 22 venues as athletes and supporters gathered to share moments of triumph, connection, and resilience.
Thirteen state universities from six provinces, representing a community of 115,000 college students, converged for the historic occasion.
Competing across 42 thrilling events at 22 venues, over 3,500 athletes, coaches, school officials, and organizers produced an unforgettable celebration of skill and will.
The celebration embodied the theme, "One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports," bringing to life the power of unity and the spirit of cooperation, surpassing mere winning.
Amid intense competition, the ISAT-U Technobees — overall champions of RSCUAA 2020 and 2023 hosted by Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU); in 2018 staged at Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), and in 2017 hosted by the University of Antique (UA)— once again demonstrated exceptional skill, strategy, and determination to claim the top spot.
Despite starting 11th place during the event's first two days, their consistent dominance across multiple disciplines showcased their unwavering pursuit of excellence, cementing their status as regional powerhouses.
CapSU Stingrays and WVSU West Marals provided stiff competition, keeping the leaderboard dynamic and the audience on edge.
This year's festival also marked a milestone for ISUFST. Hosting the RSCUAA for the first time in its 68-year history, the university proved its capability to organize an event of this magnitude.
Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., ISUFST president, shared his pride in the university's achievement.
“Hosting RSCUAA 2024 was a risk we embraced wholeheartedly. This event showcased our athletes' talent and spirit and what ISUFST and Western Visayas can achieve through collaboration and unity,” Dr. Siason, Jr. said.
The final day was a grand finalé of championship matches and a celebratory atmosphere, reflecting the collective journey of the athletes, coaches, and organizers.
While ISAT U Technobees emerged as champions, true victory lays in the camaraderie, inclusivity, and shared experiences that defined the week.
As the torch passes to the next host, Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), the Closing Ceremonies at Tamasak Arena in Barotac Nuevo, RSCUAA 2024 leaves a legacy of grit, grace, and growth.
(Info courtesy: Reynalyn Cañonero, Herman Lagon/RSCUAA VI 2024 PR)
