By Michael Angelo S. Murillo, Senior Reporter
A NEW season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 8, with the league highlighting its standing as “where it all begins.”
Hosted by National University, Season 81 has taken the theme of “It all begins here,” anchoring on the rich tradition of the UAAP as where dreams come true.
Speaking at the press conference for Season 81 on Monday at the Mall of Asia Arena, UAAP President Jose Nilo Ocampo of host NU said an exciting and competitive season awaits fans and supporters of the league even as he said that what the league is all about is set to be highlighted as well.
“As the UAAP ushers in its 81st season, dreams are on the cusp of being fulfilled. The eight teams have vowed to give their best in a position to succeed at the highest level,” Mr. Ocampo said.
“The rich history of the UAAP has shown its athletes succeed not only in sports but also outside of it. Sports is a great equalizer. It has to start somewhere. And in the UAAP it is where it begins,” he added.
The new season starts with basketball with the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons taking on the University of the East Red Warriors at 2 p.m. at the MOA Arena and hosts NU Bulldogs clashing with the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers at 4 p.m.
All the competing teams said souped-up competition is on tap for Season 81 as all have improved their rosters and prepared well.
The Ateneo Blue Eagles are the defending champions in men’s basketball with the De La Salle Green Archers ending as last season’s runners-up.
Both are to make their debut on the second day of competition on Sunday, Sept. 9, against the Adamson Soaring Falcons and Far Eastern University Tamaraws, respectively.

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