Teams to tackle challenging playing field in Thirsty Cup Men’s, Ladies’ Open at USC-TC

By Cheska D. Geli

Friday, February 17, 2012

THE Men’s and Ladies Open matches of the 9th Thirsty Cup Football Festival will push through today at the University of San Carlos – Talamban Football Field.

The mud from the heavy rains that hounded last week’s opening is one of the challenges organizers had to deal with in this year’s hosting.


The field last week was so busted up after the age-group matches were played that there were reports that said the USC administration got disappointed with the organizers for failing to restore and rehabilitate the field.

However, organizer John Pages said they already talked to the USC officials last Monday and discussed this concern and have agreed on how to address it.

The organizers will hire additional utility people this weekend to take care of the shower and washing area.

“Nobody anticipated that we would have that kind of weather last week. This is already beyond our control and games had to go on as schedule,” said Pages.

“For this weekend, I could only pray for a cooperative weather,” he added.

Some teams started practicing on the field to get used to the conditions.

As for USC head coach Gary Panagsagan who will defend their women’s open title, they have no choice but to play even in an unplayable field.

“Wala mi choice, muduwa gyud mi kay walay laing field available,” said Panagsagan.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 18, 2012.