Exactly one month after moving to the Philippines, I found myself on a flight to what was described to me as the “Football Capital” of the Philippines. Having trained with the team for a couple week prior to the training camp, I was excited and anxious to change the routine and really get down to work in another place. I didn’t know what to expect or what think think about Bacolod, only that my teammates were persistent on how “crazy” it was there. It would take the entire week of living in Bacolod to experience only a glimpse of what my teammates were talking about.
Having trained two times a day and meeting for countless meals, I have to say we didn’t have much time to see the city or explore our surroundings. Needless to say, we really didn’t need to… Bacolod came to us! The fans in Bacolod really brought the city to life and we had every opportunity to see all walks of life that greeted us before and after training, on our way to meals, at our matches and with our more formal invitations to the City Hall and Festival Celebrations. I mean for a busy week of training and preparation, I was surprised at how much we really got to experience and how many people we had the wonderful opportunity of meeting.
For the love, support and dedication that the Fans of Bacolod had for our team, I would honorably take this chance to return my sincere appreciation for those who not only support the Azkals, but for each and everyone of those who support the love and passion for the sport. I feel it is important to remember that the Azkals are only the representation of a nation united with one common interest, one common love and one common goal. The fans in Bacolod along with the fans I get to see everyday, are a true reminder that the worlds sport can really inspire an entire country.
I hope the the inspiration, gratitude and motivation I received during my first Philippines National Team Training Camp can be transformed, utilized and manifested into my own contribution towards Football in the country and I only hope I can add to a legacy that has been long started by passionate Filipinos and Foreigners to truly develop the nations in a sport we love so much.
To the many people who have inspired me in Bacolod, Thank You! I can not wait to return.
Please feel free to link any articles, photos or clips you had from Bacolod! Cheers… Until next time!
Here’s to you! http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=767211739725
Please be sure to Follow Me on Twitter @LextonMoy to keep undated with all that is going on with the Philippine Azkals, Kaya FC, and my experiences living in Manila and Traveling Asia!
Such a beautiful blog, I am so happy to hear all these from you Lexton. I’m from Bacolod and all the Azkals fans here can’t wait to have you all back in the city. More power to you and the team. We’re always here to support you.
big thanks again arlene! i love seeing you comments! it is support like this that add to the drive i get. Hope i can provide just a little of the same! cheers!
I appreciate how thankful you are to the people and to the opportunity of experiencing Bacolod. But what struck me most is your deep desire to draw on this experience to promote football and impassion Filipinos with the love for this sport. Keep up the enthusiasm and continue the good work!
Well I appreciate the comment! Like i always share…”Every minute that goes by is another opportunity to create change in yourself and others around you” I only hope that i can continue to draw upon the experiences that i am so lucky to have and share that with others, so i can promote something we too often look over or take for granted. Here’s to the small stuff that will make a big difference in the future!