ASA-PHIL Clinic Featuring International Coaches Ignites New Era for Softball in the Philippines
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 10 Jan 2025
In a landmark event poised to redefine the future of Philippine softball, international coaching luminaries Steven Figueroa and Skylynne Ellazar led a transformative two-day clinic organized by the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (ASA-PHIL). Held on January 8-9 at Rizal Memorial Stadium, the clinic gathered 45 coaches and 100 athletes, including members of the national team, in a powerful initiative that has already sparked calls for similar programs nationwide.
Figueroa, a former professional baseball player turned elite coach, shared his wealth of experience, emphasizing resilience, character, and learning from setbacks as cornerstones of athletic growth. "Athletics is about more than skills—it’s about building perseverance and mental toughness," Figueroa said, inspiring attendees with his personal journey and actionable insights.
Ellazar, an accomplished softball coach and head of the Philippine National U18 Team, delivered her signature dynamic training style, focusing on fundamentals, mental focus, and excelling under pressure. "Softball is not just physical; it’s a mental game," Ellazar said during her sessions, which left players energized and equipped to elevate their performance.
The clinic provided a rare opportunity for coaches and athletes, particularly those from provincial areas, to gain exposure to world-class training techniques. Many participants expressed their enthusiasm for expanding similar programs to other parts of the country, recognizing the potential to strengthen grassroots softball and baseball communities.
Coach Skylynne Ellazar with Coach Steven Figueroa sharing their knowledge of the game that elevates performance and inspires athletes to reach their full potential.
ASA-PHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier highlighted the significance of the event in advancing sports development. "Investing in young athletes is key to building a sustainable and successful sports culture in the Philippines," Lhuillier said. "This clinic is just the beginning, and we are committed to empowering the next generation of players and coaches." He also emphasized the importance of international expertise, adding, "Investing in getting top international coaches to train our athletes and coaches is essential. Their knowledge and experience bring a new level of excellence that will help Filipino talent thrive on the global stage."
The event also featured the active participation of national team coaches, including Blu Girls Head Coach Ana Maria G. Santiago, Asst. Coach, Anthony Santos, Jerome Bacarisas and Mary Ann Antolihao and Blu Boys Head Coach, Jasper Cabrer, Asst. Coach, Isidro Abello, Julius Cesar Visaya and Marlon Pagkaliwagan, who lent their expertise and support to the program.
As the event concluded, the overwhelming success of the clinic underscored the impact of expert coaching on local sports development. The collaboration between ASA-PHIL and international experts has set a new benchmark for training programs in the country. With plans to expand these efforts nationwide, the future of Philippine softball looks brighter than ever, with its athletes poised to shine on the international stage.-Marlon Bernardino-
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Marlon Bernardino.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Fireworks Ahead: Magsayo vs Mata in Prelims of Pacquiao vs Barrios
By Carlos Costa, Thu, 03 Jul 2025Japan's Boxing Golden Age Remains Limited to the Lower Weights
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Thu, 03 Jul 2025No issues with fight ref
By Joaquin Henson, Thu, 03 Jul 2025Round 12 with Mauricio Sulaimàn: Grand Muay Thai event in Verona
By Mauricio Sulaimán, Thu, 03 Jul 2025Morelle McCane and Rene Camacho Advance to Quarterfinals of World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025
Thu, 03 Jul 20253 Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Marco Antonio Barrera Confirmed for Eighth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 13, in Las Vegas
Thu, 03 Jul 2025ESPN Original Series The Fight Life Returns for Season Two on July 7
Wed, 02 Jul 2025TOP-RATED LIGHTWEIGHT KO ARTIST ARMANDO MARTINEZ RABI RETURNS
Wed, 02 Jul 2025Amazing Muay Thai WBC Festival 2025
Wed, 02 Jul 2025Borromeo Leads Winners of the Philippine Speedcubing Championships
By Marlon Bernardino, Wed, 02 Jul 2025What If Pacquiao Defeats Barrios?
By Ralph Rimpell, Wed, 02 Jul 2025Team USA Earns Three Wins on Day Two of World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025
Wed, 02 Jul 2025Women's Boxing Champion Signs with Combate Global, Still Aims For WBC Absolute Gold
Wed, 02 Jul 2025Sanman Boxing Presents Hard-Hitting Prospect Abubakar Yanon Set to Challenge for Philippine Boxing Federation Flyweight Title in Malungon, Sarangani Province
Wed, 02 Jul 2025Boxing Returns to Tropicana Atlantic City, July 25
Wed, 02 Jul 2025