3M CUP: Lovin the Game, the Man & the Batch

 

Blogger's Note: 

The 3M Cup is a side event of the Ruby Reunion Celebrations (July 29-30, 2023) in Naga City of the Ateneo de Naga HS Batch 1983.  3M stands for Meng Monte Memorial and it is an event to remember the Tower of Power of the Batch. Hands down, Meng is the best basketball player that our batch produced. Last Jul 29 inside the Ateneo de Naga gym, we had the 1st game of the 3-game series of the 3M Cup, the 2nd is this September and the 3rd this December. In attendance during the 1st game is Juan Raul delas Llagas Relloso, currently a faculty member of the Ateneo de Naga University and an honorary member of the batch. He wrote a beautiful piece about the experience and the Bicolano Penguin has gotten permission from him to post it in this article. 

In the middle, Meng Monte our Tower of Power (circa 2007). 

 In a world that often seems fast-paced and competitive, it is heartening to witness moments of camaraderie and friendship that transcend the pressures of daily life. Such was the case when the Ateneo de Naga University High School Batch '83 alumni gathered for a friendly basketball game, the 3M Cup, in honor of Meng Monte. It did not only showcased their sporting prowess but also celebrated the enduring bonds of friendship.

The court, adorned with the colors of their alma mater, buzzed with excitement as old friends reunited, sharing warm embraces and nostalgic stories. The atmosphere was enthusiastic, yet there was an unmistakable air of camaraderie and mutual respect. The players knew that while victory is desirable, the true essence of this game lay in rekindling connections and forging new ones.

At the start, Coin Toss to determine which team gets to choose their jersey color.  Coin toss conducted by Meng's bereaved loved one  witnessed by the Team Manila Captains  and Team Bicol Coach  and blessed by our Jesuit classmate.    

Shake hands as the Team Line Ups are introduced.  

It will not be a real tournament without the muses. 

The game commenced as the referee's whistle pierced through the air, and the friendly banter began. Amidst the dribbling of the basketball and the squeaking of sneakers, the players displayed their basketball skills and genuine affection for one another. Each pass, each shot, and each defensive move was accompanied by a supportive pat on the back or an encouraging word.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this friendly basketball game was the absence of excessive competitiveness. While the players gave their best on the court, the emphasis remained on fun and fellowship. There were no heated arguments over fouls, no resentment over missed shots, and no ego-driven displays of superiority. Instead, the players laughed off mistakes and celebrated each other's achievements, fostering an environment of goodwill and unity.

Man to Man defense.  Chest to Chest. 

Double Team Defense coverage on the Hitman.

Eyes on the Ball. 

Floor exercise.  Who wants it the most?

The friendly basketball game of ADNU High School Batch '83 was a testament to friendship's enduring power. It demonstrated that despite the passage of time and life's many challenges, the bonds formed during one's formative years can remain unyielding. This event wasn't merely about basketball; it was a celebration of the values instilled in them by their beloved institution - values of compassion, empathy, and solidarity.

As the final buzzer sounded, the score is 27-30 with Team Bicol winning. Our very own George C put the color in the commentating.  

Sportsmanship up close as the final buzzer sounded. 

Congratulations to Team Bicol for winning the 1st game of the 3M Cup this July . Team Bicol gets to keep the 3M Cup Trophy  till the 2nd game of the 3M Cup this September. 

Presenting the bereaved loved one  with the jersey and number of Meng. The number 15  is retired. The jersey is signed by  the players from both Team Bicol and Team Manila.   

At the end of the proceedings, the Teams are One again in their Love of the Game, the Man and the Batch.   

As the final buzzer sounded, the score took a backseat to the connections rekindled and the friendships strengthened. Sweaty and smiling, the players gathered for a group photo, the joy in their eyes reflecting the fulfillment derived from this delightful gathering.