Noli Ayo, Ateneo de Davao University Athletics Director, declared the effectivity of the Davao Association of Catholic Schools (DACS) Athletes’ Council (DAC)–a council of student-athlete leaders during the Regional Sports Fest opening ceremonies last September 23.

Ayo explained that the council would raise funds which would be utilized for two reasons.

“We will gather to raise funds which will be used in providing sports equipment to the schools that need them and to provide budget for the leadership program for the members of the DACS Athletes Council,” he said.

The DAC will hold an event this December as a start to their fundraising.

“On December, we will have our first solidarity night—gathering in one movie house to raise funds,” Ayo shared.

The athletics director explained that the council’s purpose was to show young athletes that they are in a strong position to influence communities and shape the future they desire to see. 

Although it was organized last year, the council has only been fully realized this year to help come out the best direction guided by the voices of the youth –the youth being its most significant and most important stakeholders. 

“The young men and women in front of us today deserve the best possible options. They deserve the best possible truths. Let us guide them to the best possible options and truths that we, as a community of catholic schools, can provide,” Ayo explained.

The DACS opening ceremony was held at the 4th Floor Martin Hall of Ateneo de Davao University. Sixteen colleges and universities coming from different areas of the Davao region participated in the said event.