UAAP teams can’t wait to enjoy the true school spirit once again after playing in a deafening silence for a week as the league welcomes the return of its roaring fans starting this week at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The league’s 84th season started last Saturday behind closed doors under a bubble setting due to the pandemic but tomorrow, gates will be open anew for fans albeit under a limited capacity for now.

It’s a breath of fresh air and a fitting return of the passionate Philippine crowd to “where they belong” according to Ateneo mentor Tab Baldwin.

“What I’m excited about is for the people of the Philippines to be back where they belong supporting their teams,” said Baldwin as the Blue Eagles get to shoot for their 31st straight win against NU (National University) at 7 p.m. tomorrow with an in-game crowd at last.

“It’s great for the fans. The UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines) has done the right thing getting the fans, cheering squads and drum choirs back. They’re part of the atmosphere. They’re all part of what makes UAAP a great competition,” he added.

For the UAAP, the decision to allow fans anew under Metro Manila’s Alert Level 1 came after a thorough discussion with the Commission of Higher Education (CHEd) and the Pasay City local government unit (LGU) with strict protocols in place.

“The UAAP is a competition best experienced with students and alumni supporting their respective schools,” said UAAP president Nonong Calanog, assuring the health and safety of student-athletes.

Only fully vaccinated individuals will be allowed with fans required to present proof of vaccination upon entry. Wearing of masks and social distancing will also be implemented while eating and drinking will be in designated areas only.

Aside from the Ateneo-NU duel, fans will also enjoy the matches between Santo Tomas and La Salle at 10 a.m., UP and Adamson at 1 p.m., as well as UE and FEU at 4 p.m. — John Bryan Ulanday

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