The epic rivalry between De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University will be elevated to another level as they vie for prestige and golf supremacy in the 2007 La Salle-Ateneo Match Play at the scenic greens of Tagaytay Highlands starting Dec. 19.
The tournament features 18 of the finest golfers from both schools using a Ryder Cup-style format for team and individual match play competition. There will also be six foursome matches and six fourball matches on the first and second days and 18 single matches in the final day on Dec. 21.
And with the last-minute announcement of the final line-up and the tricky course in the 18-hole golf course of Tagaytay Midlands, officials of both squads readily agreed that this year’s competition will be very exciting and unpredictable.
Jay Gervacio, president of De La Salle Alumni Association, admitted that everything will be fair and square until the revelation of the official roster during the ceremonial tee-off on Dec. 18.
“We’re expecting the old players to be back and blend with some new players who are tasked to lead us to victory,” Gervacio said during yesterday’s press briefing with Tagaytay Highland’s Willy Ocier. “The course is very unpredictable, so everything boils down to the skills and desire of the players.”
“But, for the meantime, we’re keeping it (official line-up) a secret. Let’s just wait on the 18th,” Gervacio stressed, but gave hints that seasoned golfer and legendary basketball coach, Tommy Manotoc, will be back for another tour of duty for the Green Archers.
But while Gervacio and the La Sallians are keeping their cards close to their chests, the Blue Eagles declared that last year’s skipper Teboy Javier will be a shoo-in along with other single-digit handicappers Iggy Clavecilla, Lovelyn Guioguio, Kat Gonzales and Manoling Chan.
After being clobbered by Ateneo in 2005, La Salle gained redemption as it trampled its counterpart via a close 23-19 decision in the team competition last year at Camp John Hay in Baguio City.
The Daily Tribune -
December 6, 2007
