Jessika Cowart, Sofia Harrison, Olivia McDaniel and Quinley Quezada were all smiles during last Saturday’s Filipinas’ homecoming motorcade at the Bonifacio Global City. Taguig City LGU photo
Filipinas still in cloud nine after World Cup success
THE Philippines remains in cloud nine a week after its memorable FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign.
“We were overwhelmed with love, joy. And just having your presence here. We could feel it through the TV, we can feel it in the stands. Most definitely feel it now,” Hali Long, one of the Filipinas captains, said after the motorcade Saturday night in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.
“It’s very overwhelming. Definitely a humbling experience. But it reminds us what we should be proud of, and who we play for. It is really all for you guys, our countrymen. And we are very happy to bring it all home to you guys,” she added.
Long, together with Sarina Bolden, who made history for the country as the first-ever World Cup goalscorer, arrived on the day of the homecoming motorcade and meet-and-greet session at the Ayala Malls Market!Market! Central Plaza.
Welcomed by football enthusiasts and supporters, the motorcade went around the entire BGC area, where the Filipinas gave t-shirts to the people who lined up in the streets.
The motorcade also passed by Turf BGC to the delight of the players, where the young kids and coaches who were conducting Saturday afternoon training session at the pitch, took time out to wave at their idols and whipped up their smartphones to take photos.
Sofia Harrison radiated inspiration as the Filipinaa defender shared an advice for aspiring young players who wanted to make it big in football.
“Keep dreaming. Keep believing. Trust the process and trust God. And most importantly, have fun with it,” Harrison said.
After taking a break, the Philippines will begin its preparations for the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games in China next month even with the departure of coach Alen Stajcic.
The Filipinas are also competing in the second round of the Olympic qualifying tournament in Perth, Australia in October.
The Philippines will face host Australia, Chinese Taipei, and Iran in Group A, needing to win the group to advance to the third round and keep its Paris dreams alive.
The Filipinas were welcomed by the Taguig City LGU led by Mayor Lani Cayetano and the aspiring football stars before the short program and press conference.
Senator Pia Cayetano, who personally cheered the national squad in New Zealand, was also present in the meet and greet affair, expressing her wholehearted support to the athletes.
The most applause went to Bolden, who went straight from the airport to meet and greet session much to the delight of the fans. She entertained hundreds of supporters patiently waited for her, making sure that she attended everyone before leaving the affair.
