Manila: The Philippines will host the inaugural U19 Asian Sepak Takraw Championship from Nov. 18 to 25 at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
According to Philippines News Agency, more than 600 athletes from 12 to 16 countries are expected to join the tournament featuring regu, quad, and mixed quadrant events. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Pilipinas Sepak Takraw president Karen Caballero expressed the nation's pride in hosting the event, stating, "We are very honored to host this event, this is big and special because we take so much pride in hosting." Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairperson John Patrick Gregorio and commissioner Walter Torres, along with Asian Sepak Takraw Federation deputy secretary general Muhammad Fariq, were also present at the event.
Gregorio emphasized the importance of promoting sepak takraw, stating, "If there is an opportunity to help promote sepak takraw, let's do it." The PSC has previously supported the country's successful hosting of the FIFA Women's Futsal World Cup, FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championships last year, and the WTA 125 Women's Open tennis last month.
Fariq highlighted the significance of the tournament as a stepping stone for future sports stars, saying, "This tournament is a start, it is a career path for future superstars."
