NEUST advances quality education and wellness through recreational games training

With a strong emphasis on inclusivity, active engagement, and sustainable recreational practices, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), through its Training Department and the Institute of Physical Education (IPE), conducted the eighth wave of its flagship online training series, titled “Train Like a Champ, Be a Champ,” on September 12, 2025.

Since its launch in 2022, the training series has consistently aimed to strengthen the professional readiness and physical education competencies of students and athletes. 

NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo expressed her appreciation to the Institute of Physical Education and the Training Department for their continued commitment to providing impactful training programs that contribute to the holistic development of students.

“I encourage [everyone] to continue to champion recreational games as powerful tools for growth and values formation, so that the lessons of play become lifelong victories for our students,” she added.

Each wave of the training series has built upon previous discussions, covering topics such as training exercises, sports nutrition, dance sports, various individual and team sports, and emerging trends in athletics, all designed to equip participants with up-to-date theoretical knowledge and practical tools aligned with evolving educational and athletic standards.

In her message, Dr. Jeniffer Amaranto, Director of the Institute of Physical Education, expressed the broader goal of the training initiative, stating, “With hope of sparking ideas, encourage collaboration and advocate for wellness through active engagement.”

Wave 8 specifically focused on recreational games as tools for building physical fitness, collaboration, and emotional well-being—directly contributing to the goals of SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 5: Gender Equality.

The session featured four faculty members from the Institute of Physical Education, with Ignacio De Guzman III opening the program through a discussion on understanding games, sports, and activities in both indoor and outdoor settings, followed by Niña Cabacungan who presented the nature, procedures, and educational applications of indoor recreational games in classroom contexts.

Meanwhile, Thea Marie Celis discussed the structure, rules, and benefits of dodgeball as a recreational activity, and Christine Joy Cayanga concluded with a talk on kickball as an engaging and inclusive sport that fosters both physical activity and teamwork.

As Wave 8 concluded, NEUST reaffirmed its commitment to delivering meaningful and sustainable training programs that promote holistic student development. 

The virtual event drew over 500 participants via Zoom and 200 via Facebook Live, comprising Physical Education majors, students, and sports enthusiasts from NEUST campuses and around the world.

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