I have been picked out of a pool of 90 players all over the world as one of the top 24 players of the touring national team of the Philippines. I made it through 3 tryouts, one in Manila, one in Sydney and one in New York.
This summer I will be playing international Rugby and representing my country in the Asian 5 Nations Tournament. The tournament is held in New Delhi India and the Philippines will be competing against top ranked Thailand in Game 1 (June 2nd) and hopefully the winner of the China vs. India for Game 2 in the Division 2 championship on June 7th. After we win both games we will be promoted to Division 1 next year and will be in contention for a World Cup Qualifier. If you would like to follow the games online you an go to www.asian5nations.com, www.prfu.com, or on YouTube’s Asian Rugby Channel where they will be filming the games.
The Philippines Sports Commission are paying for all expenses once I get to the Philippines, such as hotels and flights to India, but they will not be able to help me get to the Philippines at all. Flights from the US to the Philippines are around $1,800 which is an extremely difficult task for a recently graduated college student. I am reaching out to the rugby community for any help anyone can offer to help me reach my dreams.
Playing for the Philippines on an international level has been a dream come true. I love the sport of rugby and everything that comes with it. I have been playing Rugby since I was a freshman in high school with Fairfield Prep and Met-NY All-Stars. Throughout college I have been playing with Boston University, New England Rugby Union All-Stars, the Northeast Collegiate All-Stars, the All-American 7s Team and this spring with Boston Men's Rugby Club. Through my participation with these teams I have seen first hand the camaraderie and brotherhood that this sport promotes.
Also, I do believe in giving back to help rugby grow in the United States that is why I have been actively involved with Play Rugby USA which is a program that offers free clinics to teach rugby to Boston youths.
I know times are tough right now, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to make your support worth while. If you want to sponsor me as a business I will promote your business overseas during this international tournament by wearing your business logos.
Of course, I will keep everyone constantly updated through this blog with pictures and videos when ever possible.
There is a donate button on the upper right of the page. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!
