14/08/2025
|| JAGUAR PRIDE SOARS AT ISAAL: Arias leads the charge with bronze win
The Quezon City Academy (QCA) Jaguars showed grit, sportsmanship, and plenty of fighting spirit as they took on the Inter School Academic and Athletic League (ISAAL) Badminton Tournament last August 7–8, 2025, at Chut’s Badminton & Sports Center. The two-day event brought together the best young shuttlers from various schools, each wielding their own unique strengths and strategies in pursuit of victory.
From the moment the shuttlecocks soared across the court, it was clear: every match would be a test of skill, stamina, and heart.
The Jaguars entered the arena ready to face fierce competition. In the U14 Girls Singles category, Josandra Daleon fought valiantly, giving her all against tough opponents. Despite her unwavering effort, she was outscored 31–9 and 31–7. Her performance, however, was a testament to perseverance, never letting the scoreboard define her spirit.
Meanwhile, in the U14 Boys Singles, John Lee Reguyal was a force to be reckoned with. Armed with powerful smashes and rock-solid defense, he stormed through his first two matches, securing victories at 31–18 and 31–10. His impressive run brought him to the quarterfinals, where the competition grew even more intensely.
The U16 Girls Doubles team of Allana Dela Cruz and Reguyal Ria displayed sharp coordination and relentless energy. Though they ultimately fell short with scores of 31–9 and 31–8, their teamwork was evident throughout the matches.
On the other hand, in the U14 Boys Doubles, Marc Manalastas and Crisjohn Tavas faced an uphill battle against King’s Montessori, dropping the first game 31–5. Bouncing back with determination, they edged out VMC in a nail-biting 31–26 win, before bowing to EDSCI at 31–17.
And in the U16 Boys Doubles duo, Jurel Pascual and Jaiviel Arkin Prado, opened strong by toppling SMRS 31–24. However, their run was cut short after falling to KMS and VMC with scores of 31–20 and 31–18 respectively.
The highlight of the Jaguars’ campaign came from Natalie Arias of the U16 Girls Singles. From the very first serve, Arias commanded the court—sweeping her matches 31–18, 31–9, and 31–18. Her agility, precision, and calm under pressure carried her all the way to the finals.
Although she narrowly missed the gold, Arias proudly brought home the bronze medal—a shining symbol of her dedication and hard work.
Head Coach Mrs. Leongson shared words of wisdom that echoed the team’s resilience.
“Pero kung ano man ang ibigay ni Lord, ok lang. So kung matalo man kami, magt-training at magt-training pa din kami. Kung manalo, magt-training pa din kami.”
In the end, the ISAAL Badminton Tournament was more than just about scores—it was about experience, growth, and school pride. The QCA Jaguars may not have taken home the championship crown this time, but they certainly left the court with heads held high, ready to train harder for the battles ahead.