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:
Leading World Cruiserweight Contender Ryan ‘The Bruiser’ Rozicki returns from 15-month layoff with another overpowering KO
Mon, 09 Mar 2026Roca, Bernardino share top honors in Tea Block rapid chess tournament
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 08 Mar 2026Fastpitch Softball on March 20-22 in Calinan
By Lito delos Reyes, Sun, 08 Mar 2026Opetaia vs Glanton: Dana White Crowns First Boxing Champion. Is Fight Worthy?
By Chris Carlson, Sun, 08 Mar 2026In Thrilling Showdown, Pagara Falls Short Against Polkinghorn by Points.
Sun, 08 Mar 2026Unofficial Unification Tournament Brewing For Welterweights
By Ralph Rimpell, Sat, 07 Mar 2026Fight Results from Montreal: Steven Butler Obliterates Ramadan Hiseni; Wins by Lenar Perez, Jhon Orobio and Steve Claggett
By Eric Armit, Sat, 07 Mar 2026Former Champ Junior Makabu visits WBC offices in Mexico City
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Sat, 07 Mar 2026WEIGHTS FROM SYDNEY, NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA
Sat, 07 Mar 2026Weights from Atlantic City
Sat, 07 Mar 2026PFL Releases Francis Ngannou
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Sat, 07 Mar 2026Polkinghorn, Pagara at the Scales in Perth, Australia
By Carlos Costa, Sat, 07 Mar 2026Young Briton Rising Star: Callum Dan's Quest for Boxing Glory
By Carlos Costa, Sat, 07 Mar 2026Chua rules Pattaya Open; pockets $22,500
By Marlon Bernardino, Sat, 07 Mar 2026All Star Boxing live on ESPN DEPORTES Weights from Nicaragua
Fri, 06 Mar 2026