TSU Performing Arts Hip-hop Dance Group bagged the "world champion" title in the 2024 International Cheerleading Union (ICU) Cheerleading World Cup held at the Olympic Park in Seoul, South Korea last November 22-24, 2024.
This is the team's first international competition where they represented the Philippines after placing first in the National Dance Championships last March 2024.
Composed of 16 members, the group performed a more than two-minute presentation for the Team Senior Hip-hop category (Performance Division) and bested more than 15 countries through a series of elimination rounds.
Their formation wowed the ten judges, saying their 'diagonal formation was on fire.'
The group earned 75% in the semifinals and 79% in the final round.
According to Mr. Daniel Dizon, assistant coach, some members found it hard to adapt to the cold weather in Korea and fell sick, prompting them to still dance while struggling with colds.
Mr. Dizon said Cheer Pilipinas paved the way for them to be endorsed to participate in the international competition.
He also shared how the alumni of the dance group supported their journey by advising and critiquing their choreography along with Prof. Joseph Melegrito, the head coach.
“Nahirapan kami na mag-establish ng skill-based performance nila, mga tumblings or stunts kasi. Iyon 'yung kailangang makita ng mga judges, hindi lang siya puro sayaw,” Mr. Dizon said in an interview with OPA.
Meanwhile, the group paid a courtesy visit to TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco to present their award and thank him for the support from the Board of Regents and the administration.
“Continue with your dreams, mangarap pa kayo ng mas mataas. Walang imposible. Nagawa niyong maging world champion, magagawa niyong maging champion sa sari-sarili ninyong buhay,” Pres. Velasco told the group.
The group was also recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) upon winning the prestigious competition.
Yangie Bayang, a BSBA Economics student and the TSU PA Hip-hop Dance Group leader, said they hope to compete in the World of Dance College Division, which will be held in Australia in March next year.
They are currently training the 38 new members, with ten new members representing the university in the street dance hip-hop category of the Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges' Culture and the Arts Festival at Bulacan State University, also held this November 2024.
Bayang shared that time management, discipline, and teamwork were their secrets to winning the competition. He said they needed to sacrifice time and hold practices until 9:00 PM to make adjustments for the other members with evening classes.
Mr. Dizon said they are looking forward to using the Tarlac Community Sports and Wellness Center (TCSWC) to be built at the San Isidro Campus so they can conduct proper training. (jlmm-OPA)
