The DLSU Animo Squad finished three notches lower at fifth in this year’s UAAP Cheerdance Competition (CDC) at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City last September 22.
The two-time defending champions UP Pep Squad bagged its eighth title in this year’s CDC, followed by the FEU Cheering Squad, a perennial contender for the crown for the past decade, and this year’s surprising team, the National U Pep Squad.
The Animo Squad, which had improved last year and had established itself as a CDC contender though had to undergo major rebuilding after some mainstays graduated.
Green Boxers
This season, the Animo Squad delivered a boxing-inspired performance, depicting a more aggressive squad.
Animo Squad Team Captain Paolo Lucero explained, “More on aggressive ang theme namin kasi we are fighting for the title.”
The squad members, once again, showcased their skills in gymnastics, utilizing its masculine cheerleaders to create high tosses.
Animo Squad member Tasha Mendoza exclaimed, “Nag-push lahat and binigay namin lahat ng efforts namin. Regarding our improvement, yung mga rookies namin, hindi halata. Talagang we came out there and pinakita namin yung best namin.”
Keeping the Animo alive
The squad wept for a little after the results were released, but took the results of the competition in high spirit.
“I’ve seen them improve. In terms of the strength of the routine and the skill level of the performers, as well the concept really leveled up. The bottom line is they were able to make the audience happy, they make us really proud,” said Edwin Reyes, DLSU UAAP Board Member, as he acknowledged the team’s achievement.
More photos here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151104082034760.451498.149678604759&type=3
