UE opens UAAP with galaxy-themed ensemble

By Anthony Divinagracia Posted Jul 12th 2014

Season 77 of the UAAP officially unfurled in galactic style on Saturday with host University of the East (UE) leading the elaborate opening ceremony at the Araneta Coliseum.

Garbed in space-inspired suits, team captains of the eight basketball squads made their way through a solar-system spruced entourage while carrying poles accentuated by spheres resembling each school’s color and symbol.

These sphere, according to UE president Ester Garcia, resemble the planets in “the UAAP universe” revolving around this year’s theme “Unity and Excellence.”

“Together we are passion, excellence, and boldness personified. Let us embody unity and excellence,” Garcia said in her welcome remarks.

UE team captain JR Galanza led the oath of sportsmanship. UAAP president Carmelita Mateo then declared the opening of the UAAP varsity wars with the men’s basketball tournament firing off later in the day.

With the UE choral serenading in the background, the eight team captains assembled at centercourt and unsheathing their school colors before raising each other’s hands to underscore unity.

The hosts’ UE Performing Arts capped the 30-minute affair with a dance ensemble featuring globes and ribbons.