“The clinic was requested by the Lions Club through BANMI because most of the players do not have experience playing in an official game,” said Lions Club’s program director Paul Madriaga in an email to the Variety.
“The primary purpose is for the players to know the basic FIBA rules. Through the clinic the players will avidly learn the do’s and dont’s while playing on the court and gain knowledge of updated rulings,” Madriaga explained.
“The clinic was well attended by the representatives of each team, coaches, and players as well as the other committee members,” said Madriaga.
The Variety learned that the clinic handed out a certificate and league shirt to White as a token of their appreciation.
The Variety also learned that visitors from the Guam Lions Club, District Governor Romy Angel and Lion Fely Angel, IPDG Melen Ruiz and DGE Rey Acierto were also present to witness the clinic.
Members from the Lions Club of Saipan included: Jess Delos Santos, Ladyvir Canape Joe Digno, Flor Miranda, Lolit Velasco, Danny Cabio, and Nel Atalig. Other dignitaries of the club and associates included Roger Talapian of Saipan Fil-Am Lions, and Ruth Torrecampo of Saipan Unity.
The Saipan Lions Club would like to thank Rex Yabut, Boy Garcia, Ric Alejandro, Peter Crisostomo and the officials – Lito Salas, Arnold Mesa, and volunteers who are the main reason why there was a friendship league established at the civic center.
The Saipan Lions Club supported the ongoing friendship tournament and other upcoming leagues in line with their sports development program for the community.
“The Lions Club will soon engage in the youth league. As a starting point, Team Lions just participated in the FIBA 33 competition at the SAFE jamboree held at the Koblerville basketball court and conquered the U16 category,” said Madriaga.
Team Lions was composed of Jaymark Deguzman, Nevin Salem, Bryl Alegre, Ken Orojola, and Mark Villones. These young guns will be future members of the LEO Club, a youth development program of the Lions Club.
“We would like to sincerely thank their coach Rex Yabut for helping them shine in the FIBA 33 competition,” added Madriaga.
The Lions Club’s Friendship Basketball will enter its final semis this Saturday and Sunday. Their games will commence on Saturday at 3 pm and Sunday at 8 am and the second game at 3 pm as well. Everyone is encouraged to come out and support the teams.
The Lions Club would like to extend their gratitude to their sponsors who are: AON insurance and the Tans Sui Lin Foundation.
Their appreciation also goes to their fellow Lions and friends – Guam Spirit LC, Guam Galaide LC, Guam Asia Pacific LC, Saipan Fil-Am, Saipan Unity and Armatech.
