In the life of every UP student-athlete, there is much sacrifice involved — from grueling training to time management — in order to achieve their dreams both in sports and academics.
For those who hail from the provinces and overseas, there is also the added layer of being away from their family and loved ones for most of the calendar year.
With their focus zeroed in on their careers and finishing their degrees, it is easy for precious time with those who are important to get lost in the thick of things.
But luckily for members of the UP Men’s Basketball Team, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is assisting them in the form of high speed internet in their dorm to help the players communicate with their loved ones from miles away.
Fil-Canadian Antonio Eusebio and Fil-Am Henry Galinato Jr. had to adjust the most as they joined the helm of the Maroons, as they needed to get used to life in another country.
Though admitting it’s a challenge to live independently, they are able to adjust with the help of Converge and technology.
“At first it was a struggle, but like this time, I think I’ve experienced all the things that I’ve needed to experience and it’s much better. I’m having an easier time,” said Eusebio, who says his mother gets upset when he misses a video call. “They’re all very clingy.”
“It’s hard but I got pretty used to it because Zav [Lucero] helped when I was here. But, you know, I miss my mom and everybody over there. I’m a lot older so it’s not as hard as if this was a few years ago, it probably would be much more of a struggle for me but it’s not that bad [with technology]. It’s not like I’m going away forever, it’s how I see it,” quipped Galinato.
