Porac LGU U14 proves character wins at Alviera Football Cup

In a tournament that celebrated learning, teamwork, and character, one team from Porac stood out not just for how they played, but for the values they carried onto the pitch.

Formed only recently, the Porac LGU Football Team U14 entered the Alviera Football Cup as relative unknowns. With little time to build chemistry and coming from diverse backgrounds—including several players from indigenous communities—the odds were never stacked in their favor. But what they lacked in experience, they made up for in unity, discipline, and a shared willingness to learn.

Game after game, the team displayed a brand of football that went beyond skill. They helped opponents up after hard tackles, respected referees’ decisions, and played with composure well beyond their years. By the end of the tournament, Porac LGU U14 didn’t just compete—they stood out, earning the Sportsmanship Award and recording the highest number of “green cards,” a distinction given to teams that exemplify respect and positive values on and off the pitch.

Behind their remarkable showing is a strong support system. The LGU Porac-backed team is guided by personnel from the Philippine Air Force, who bring structure, discipline, and mentorship to the young athletes. Supporting the program are partners such as the Alviera Sports Program, XMPLR, and the 540th Air Base Group, all working together to provide these children with access to training, facilities, and opportunities they might not otherwise have.

For many of the players, football is more than just a sport—it’s a pathway. A chance to build confidence, form friendships, and dream bigger than their circumstances. Training sessions, held regularly at the Alviera grounds, have become a space not just for drills and matches, but for growth and belonging. Coach TSg (Technical Sergeant) Randy Bela-Ong of the LGU Porac Team shared how the young players’ determination left a lasting impression on him throughout the tournament and training sessions.

“Nakita ko sa players namin yung eagerness at perseverance kahit na baguhan sila sa tournament. In fact, excited sila to compete. Sa totoo lang, yung mga kapatad (Aeta), ang layo ng mga nilalakad nila makapunta lang sa football clinic namin pero di mo makikita sa mukha nila yung pagod. Ang maganda pa, na-build din sa kanila yung friendship, confidence, trust, and cooperation among other players living within the Alviera Community and Porac,” Bela-Ong said.

“Sa team namin, play and enjoy muna ang mahalaga. Basic football lang muna ang tinuturo namin sa mga bata. Salamat sa team ninyo na nag-organize ng Alviera Cup for the opportunity na makapaglaro ang mga batang ito. Big help ito para maipakita nila yung learnings from our football clinic.”

Their journey in the Alviera Football Cup may not have ended with a championship trophy, but for the Porac LGU Football Team, success was measured differently. In every green card earned and every act of respect shown, they proved that the true victory lies in character.

And as they continue to train, play, and grow together, this young team from Porac is showing Central Luzon—and the rest of the country—that sometimes, the most powerful stories in sports aren’t about who wins, but about how the game is played.

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