As the COVID-19 restrictions are being relaxed, all activities are being backed to normal physical set up. For example, the exciting games among universities and colleges in Metro Manila have been back. Of course, the yelling, cheering, and loud noises of spectators watching the opening ceremonies of the of games are back. For this year’s University Athletic Association of the Philippines UAAP Season 85, the theme is very timely which is “Rise as One.”

As a coach of Table Tennis, I am very privileged  to be a part of it and be able to witness the performances of each players from different prestigious schools. Having first-hand experience is entirely different than simply watching it over some broadcast of any media.

Being a physical education teacher, I was saddened during the pandemic when all the sports and physical activities are banned from being conducted. All physical activities were affected. All movements had been restricted and sports activities in general have regressed among students. Although it is being normalized yet, the activities are still limited.

However, to my point of view as an educator, everything must be backed to where they have been during the pre-pandemic period. If the move is to  gradually return to the activities like conducting regular sports festivals and clinics, the memory and hang over of the pandemic may not immediately leave the minds of the students and the youth. However, I am not suggesting to do it without considering the safety of everyone involved in sports. At least in school, basic competitions could begin just like what is being done in various leagues in the different barangays.

I am an advocate of sports as it will make the physical body healthier. When a person is healthy and has learned the value of sportsmanship, then it is not only sickness that can be avoided but we are developing holistic individuals who are physically fit and does not contract sickness quickly.

Return the excitement of sports even in the classrooms or even in the schools. However, do it with care and caution as the social learning that can be taken from the activities cannot be denied.