With a focus on mentorship and gender inclusivity, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) partnered with Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) for a collaborative sports exchange. Held on December 14-15, 2023 at DMMMSU’s North La Union Campus, the “DMMMSU-MPSPC Volleyball Experience Exchange and Athletes’ Recollection and Team-Building with GAD Lens” showcased a commitment to creating a supportive environment for both female and male athletes through shared learning, team-building, and gender-sensitive mentorship.
The event brought together the women’s and men’s volleyball teams from both institutions, with a strong focus on mentorship and skill development. Coaches and team leaders conducted joint training sessions, providing young athletes, particularly the women, with targeted guidance in strategy, technique, and leadership. These sessions not only helped refine athletic skills but also encouraged athletes to overcome personal and societal challenges, fostering a deeper sense of confidence and resilience.The women’s teams were given specific Women Empowerment sessions dedicated to strategy, skill development, and leadership, creating an environment that fostered both athletic growth and personal confidence. Throughout the exchange, female athletes were encouraged to share their experiences and challenges, and were provided with guidance on navigating the unique dynamics of being a woman in sports.
Coaches from both institutions placed particular emphasis on skill-sharing and encouragement, guiding the women through technical drills and team tactics while also addressing broader topics such as resilience, mental health, and balancing academics with athletics. This mentorship-focused approach was designed not only to strengthen the athletes’ skills but also to build their confidence and instill in them a sense of community and support.
Beyond the games, the event featured an athletes’ recollection session combined with team-building activities focused on Gender and Development (GAD). These activities aimed to promote gender equity, raise awareness about inclusivity in sports, and provide athletes with tools to support each other across genders. Through workshops, open discussions, and team exercises, participants explored how gender perspectives impact their experiences in sports, helping them build stronger bonds and mutual respect within their teams.
MPSPC College President Edgar G. Cue, in his send-off message, emphasized the institution’s commitment to supporting every student-athlete and, in particular, uplifting women in sports. “As we strengthen our involvement in sports, both locally and nationally, we remain committed to MPSPC’s core values of Professionalism, Resilience, Inclusivity, Moral Integrity, and Excellence,” he stated. Cue highlighted the importance of sportsmanship, discipline, and leadership, underscoring how these values contribute to both athletic success and personal development.
This initiative by MPSPC and DMMMSU represents more than just a sports exchange; it’s a shared journey of mentorship, growth, mutual respect, empowerment, and advocacy for women’s participation in sports. By creating spaces where both female and male athletes can learn, connect, and empower each other, the institutions set an inspiring example of inclusivity in sports. This collaboration shows how sports can be a powerful tool for fostering character, resilience, and equality, laying a foundation for future events that celebrate and elevate athletes of all backgrounds.
