A shy and humble kid from Muntinlupa National High School has made his way into the archers’ lair as the newest member of the DLSU Green Judokas. Michael Borja, who has been practicing the art of Judo for seven years, will suit up for the Green-and-White this coming UAAP Season 76. One of the top recruits of La Salle, he is ready to take center stage in this year’s UAAP Judo Tournament, where the Judokas will attempt to take home the championship.
Borja was also recruited by both UP and UST, but decided to go to La Salle. When asked why he chose DLSU over the other schools, Borja pointed out the importance of studies and admits that he prioritizes his studies over judo. He was also impressed with the training techniques and routines that La Salle exhibits, and says that they are far better than what he was used to in the past. In addition, he already knew most of his current La Salle teammates even before being recruited and that this fact made his decision much easier.
Ever since he first stepped into the dojo of La Salle, his teammates and coaches have been steadily mentoring him, teaching him several lessons that can help him both on the mat and in the real world. “Kailangan ‘pag naglalaro ibibigay mo talaga lahat kasi pinagpapaguran mo lahat so di pwede masayang yun,” says Borja regarding the things that he has learned from coach Sam Bernales and Immar Razon, the two who he says have influenced him the most in the team.
As he steps into a new chapter of his life, Borja is more than thankful for what he has already achieved. Despite winning several medals in the past, he remains humble and hungry as he plans to bring La Salle along with him in his trail to glory. He claims that being recruited by La Salle is his most memorable achievement thus far, since the honor that comes with the recruitment has definitely made it much sweeter compared to the medals that he won during his past competitions. “Gusto ko lang maging champion kahit anong mangyari, kahit anong tournament. Para na rin sa dinadala kong school,” Borja adds.
With just a few months left before the tournament starts, Borja is ready to step on the judo mat and showcase his talents. With every drop of sweat that he sheds in practice, he will surely give his all for the glory of the team and La Salle this coming season.
