Ateneo turns over UAAP hosting to La Salle for Season 83, with theme "Fully Alive, Champions for Life"

The Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday turned over the hosting rights of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) for its 83rd season to De La Salle University (DLSU).

The turnover was held in the virtual closing ceremony for Season 82.

"As we close Season 82, we are grateful to all those who gave their all to make Season 82 possible. And it is with honor that we turn over the hosting of UAAP Season 83 to De La Salle University,"  said Ateneo president Fr. Jett Vilalrin, SJ.

During the virtual turnover, DLSU President Br. Ray Suplido FSC welcomed the hosting rights and announced Season 83's theme, "Fully Alive, Champions for Life." 

"We are embarking on Season 83 with the motto -- Fully Alive, Champions for Life. This is De La Salle University welcoming you to Season 83."

The new host also emphasized the health and safety of the league's stakeholders before opening the upcoming season. "For the love of sports, we have to challenge ourselves to continue to excel. It is important that we do so with resilience and fortitude. Also, we must plan and play but with safety and prudence in our minds so that we do not risk the health and safety of our members."

UAAP Season 82 was cut short last March as community quarantines were imposed in the country to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Several sports such as volleyball, football, and 3x3 basketball were affected by the cancellation of the season.

The UAAP hopes to open Season 83 early 2021, as the country currently grapples with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. — LA, GMA News