CEAS Mentors Duo Reclaims Gold, Overpowers CBA in Mixed Doubles Badminton Clash
TRICKSHOT COVERED COURT—In a smashing display of speed, precision, and teamwork, the College of Education, Arts and Sciences (CEAS) Mentors reclaimed badminton glory, dominating the mixed doubles championship against the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) Wizards on September 16, 2025, at the Trickshot Badminton Court.
Right from the opening serve, the dynamic duo of Daniel Ruzzel Bernal and Mary Anne Lafuente wasted no time asserting their dominance with lightning-quick reflexes and razor-sharp shot placements.
Consequently, their rapid-fire rallies and clever net play kept the CBA Wizards scrambling across the court, ending the first set in convincing fashion at 21-9, with CEAS clearly in control.
Building on that first-set momentum, Bernal and Lafuente came out swinging in the second set, smashing their way to an early lead through seamless communication and smart positioning.
Meanwhile, although the Wizards attempted a comeback with aggressive clears and pushes, every move was countered by the Mentors’ calculated drop shots, steady defense, and powerful smashes, closing the set at 21-1 to secure the championship crown.
After the final rally, Lafuente emphasized that the victory was not only a triumph of skill but also a testament to their trust in each other, both on and off the court.
Similarly, Bernal expressed his pride and excitement after clinching the gold, saying, “Sobrang saya po and super proud po ako sa partner ko.”
Before reaching the finals, the duo battled past the CHTM Sharks in the elimination round, overcoming sharp smashes and relentless returns to secure a 30–10 win and a spot in the championship stage.
Furthermore, the CEAS pair showed that age and experience were no barriers, as their first match as college students turned into a golden opportunity to prove their fire and determination. | via Lovely Mae M. Doroin/The FOREFRONTFOREFRONT
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Photos by Ellisha Dawn Cimafranca
