The University of Guam’s 4^th Annual President’s Cup has officially concluded. After several weeks of fierce competition, winning teams were recognized for their accomplishments at the awards ceremony on Friday, March 11^th. The winning team had its name placed on the “President’s Cup,” a nearly 6-foot tall trophy displayed year-around at the President’s Office.

The President’s Cup consisted of ten competitive events: badminton, ping pong, dodgeball, basketball, volleyball, tug of war, Wild Card, 5k, ROTC EST, and the Triton’s Challenge.

Teams were tested physically, mentally, and strategically throughout the games. From playing fast-paced, strenuous games like basketball and dodgeball to having to think their way through a quiz night to working together to complete relay races, this year’s cup had an event for everyone.

A total of 140 students, faculty and alumni in 14 teams battled their way through the events.

The ROTC Artic Panda Monkeys (APM) took first place this year, followed by the Goal Diggers from the School of Education in second, and the Republic of Palau Student Organization Yellow in third.

Marlijo Serineo, captain of APM, said her team’s success stemmed from their positive energy and continuous support of each other.

“There was never a moment we weren’t cheering each other on,” said Serineo. “APM will definitely be back to defend the title next year!”

The Bad News Barracudas, a team of Marine Biology graduate students, said they will also be coming back for more action next year.

“Although not all of us are athletic, we were surprisingly good at a few sports,” said team captain Ashton Williams.  “It was a fun way to practice teamwork and show our school spirit!”

The President’s Cup began in 2013 as a part of the University’s Charter Day celebration as a way to increase interaction between students, faculty and alumni in a friendly yet competitive way. Since the Cup began the number of participants has doubled, and is anticipated to continue to grow as the excitement is spread and the tournament is further developed.

UOG Chief Planning Officer David Okada has been on the board for the President’s Cup since the beginning and said he believes that the Cup serves as way for participants to enjoy a re-energized Triton spirit and sense of camaraderie.

“Where else can you have a multitude of different factions, including an array of student organizations, University faculty, and alumni, come together and focus as a team to achieve a certain goal while celebrating the University's Charter?” Okada said.

First Place Winners: ROTC Arctic Panda Monkeys

 

Second Place: Goal Diggers

 

Third Place: Republic of Palau Student Organization Yellow (not pictured)