GTA Hoops Holds Second Annual "Palarong Basketbol" in Toronto

 
By Bob Acuna San Juan
Toronto-Canada
June 25, 2019
 


Summer is here! Right on, in true Pinoy basketball tradition the 2nd annual GTA Hoops "Palarong Basketbol"  beautifully bounced back anew! Welcoming the hot season, the ever-popular GTA Hoops basketball invitational tournament got underway on June 14,15, & 16, 2019. The 3 - day sports competition was held at HoopDome, Downsview Park in North York, Toronto. It was generously sponsored by Dr. Victoria Santiago & Associates Family Dentistry and conducted in celebration of "Filipino Heritage Month" across Canada.



The actual opening rites were conducted on the second day, June 15th.  Ably emceed by Suzy Llanera, a community leader and PIDC & CNAC-O officer, the morning program started with the lead singing of the Canadian and Philippine national anthems by Kafacefa Llarena.  Sports director Manny Villamor welcomed the guests, players, parents, coaches, game officials and organizers.



Two members of Canada's Parliament, namely: Honourable Marco Mendicino and Michael Levitt, MPs for Eglinton- Lawrence and York Centre, respectively, graced the occasion with their special greetings and enthusiastic participation.  Special guest Camille Izabel Clarin, Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 U18 World Cup Basketball 2019 player, gave an inspirational message to aspiring ballers.



At the event, MP M. Levitt personally presented Congratulatory Certificates to Manny & Vilma Villamor, Vilma Tahsin, Roger Tarca and Bob San Juan, the league organizers and leaders. Lively special performances were demonstrated by Katrina Llarena, Melissa Manaig, Alicia Escueta, JJ Belles, Jessie Tendenilla and Jace Musni. Also present in the ceremonies were: Fernando & Nene Ticzon, Tony & Joy San Juan, Jess Llanera, Nely Lopriego, Ino Sanchez, Minda Neri and members of the GTA Hoops sport-loving families.



In the afternoon, His Worship, Toronto Mayor John Tory came in before the start of Skills Challenge and 3-Points Shooting Competition portion to greet participants and their families at the event and some photo opportunities.



The closing and awards ceremonies were conducted on June 16th, a "Happy Father's Day". Among the winning teams who received medals, trophies and champion honours were: CKaTT, RGT, FBA Durham, 24MM, Crossover, Rising Suns, Jayhawks and DLB.





Majority of the participants, players, parents, coaches, officials, guests, spectators and organizers collectively expressed their approval of the " thrilling tournament experience" and were looking forward to another challenging and competitive games next year. A well-received and well-deserved expectation and admiration, indeed.

( Bob A. San Juan /TSJ).