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:
THE PAST WEEK IN ACTION 2 DECEMBER 2025: Kavaliauskas Wins by Split Decision Over Molina; Whittaker Stops Gavazi in 1; Malajika Wins by UD Over Paras
By Eric Armit, Wed, 03 Dec 2025WBC Strips Terence Crawford of Super Middle Title
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 03 Dec 2025Soledad wins WBC Asian Continental title
By Lito delos Reyes, Wed, 03 Dec 2025A night of power, legacy, and UAE pride: IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships opens in spectacular fashion in Dubai
Wed, 03 Dec 2025OKC Thunder is NBA 2025-2026 Strongest Team
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 03 Dec 2025Who was Clever Sison?
By Joaquin Henson, Wed, 03 Dec 2025MATCHROOM BOXING RETURNS TO FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS WITH MURATALLA-CRUZ FIGHT, JAN. 24, 2026
Wed, 03 Dec 2025TRAINING CAMP NOTES: Undefeated Featherweight Luis Nuñez Prepares for Hector Sosa Showdown on PBC on Prime Video
Wed, 03 Dec 2025Darry Bernardo, 4 other Pinoys in hot start in 3rd Asian Chess Championship 2025 for players with disabilities
By Marlon Bernardino, Wed, 03 Dec 2025Two Pacquiaos on same card?
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 02 Dec 2025OLYMPIC BOXING 4: 1924 OLYMPICS AT PARIS, FRANCE
By Maloney L. Samaco, Tue, 02 Dec 2025Cebuana Lhuillier-Backed UTP National Team Shines at 40th Penang Open, Captures Multiple Titles
By Marlon Bernardino, Tue, 02 Dec 2025WBC 63th Annual Convention Opens in Bangkok
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Tue, 02 Dec 2025Undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor closing out a strong 2026
Tue, 02 Dec 2025USA Boxing Announces Partnership with Xempower USA
Tue, 02 Dec 2025