MSU-GenSan’s Mayari FC shimmers in Davao; transcends with silver in Siklab Women’s Futsal Cup Debut

Despite playing the away role in unfamiliar territory as the lone representative from Region 12, the Mindanao State University – General Santos (MSU-GenSan) Women’s Futsal Team stunned both the crowd and their opponents with a silver-medal finish in the first-ever Ateneo Sui Generis Leadership (ASGL): Siklab Women’s Futsal Cup, held at Green Heights Clubhouse, Buhangin, Davao del Sur, on April 26, 2025.

Drawn into Bracket A alongside Bianca's Angels, AC Dachi, and Cute Girls of Davao, the MSU-GenSan squad, competing under the name Mayari FC, advanced through the group stage and surged into the finals.

© ASGL: Siklab Women’s Futsal Cup

Embodying the essence of Mayari, the goddess of the moon and stars, they rose above all but one of the seven competing teams, including 2nd runner-up Bianca’s Angels, before falling to eventual champions Lady Knights in a gripping finale.

“Honestly, it was wild,” shared Mary Dee Ventura Anim, one of Mayari FC’s standout players who earned a Mythical Five award. She explained that unlike in previous tournaments where they were familiar with their opponents and had an idea of their playing styles, this time they faced completely unfamiliar teams, which made them anxious—especially since they hadn’t undergone proper training.

Anim also recalled their struggles with time constraints in conducting practices: “Busy tanan, kulang sa oras, pero when the games started, we just gave everything. The tournament was intense from start to finish. Every game felt like a battle, pero we kept pushing and believing in each other.”

MSU-GenSan’s strong showing was made even more impressive by the challenges they faced before kickoff. “Wala mi tarong tulog kay nag-travel mi ug three (3) hours para maka-adto sa venue,” she added. “Dili gyud physically prepared among lawas due to lack of sleep.”

Reflecting on their championship match loss to the Lady Knights, Anim remarked, “The other team was super skilled, kusog sila both offense and defense, and the pressure of playing for the title made it even more intense. More on defense among nahimo and if may chance gina-grab namo.”

Lady Knights, representing Ateneo de Davao University and bolstered by additional players from Rizal Memorial Colleges, Inc., dominated the tournament with composed and consistent performances, ultimately seizing the championship crown. Team member Ally Gaylan, also named to the Mythical Five, called the tournament “very memorable.” She added, “Every match was tough, but we enjoyed every moment, especially being able to compete with teams from outside Davao.”

When asked about her award, Gaylan expressed sincere gratitude: “I’m not really expecting to be one of the Mythical Five. I’m happy and proud that I’ve received such a medal that all of us deserve and I thank God that I’m honored to receive an award as one of the Mythical Five.”

Anim echoed the sentiment: “Daghan gyud kaayo ug talented players sa tournament, so being recognized like that felt amazing. But at the same time, I see it as a reflection of how well our team played together.”

Beyond the medals and accolades, the emotional highs of camaraderie and growth defined the tournament. “Every single game was a memory, but the best one was just being with the team — laughing, fighting, and enjoying every moment,” Anim shared. “Whether we were winning or struggling, we never lost our love for the game and for each other.”

Gaylan agreed: “[The best memory] is that we just enjoy playing the sport with different teams. It was fun and very memorable.”

The final standings saw the Lady Knights lifting the trophy as champions, followed by silver medalists MSU-GenSan, and Bianca’s Angels securing third place. Bianca Ibañez dazzled throughout the tournament and was awarded Most Valuable Player, while Janeica Fernandez claimed the Golden Boot.

Joining Anim and Gaylan in the Mythical Five were Julien Mirto of Bianca’s Angels, and Isabelle Taojo and Zeah Flores of the Lady Knights.

With its passionate display of grit, sportsmanship, and sisterhood, the ASGL: Siklab Women’s Futsal Cup was more than just a showcase of female futsal talent; it was a celebration of young women in football, blazing a path through unity and heart while inspiring greater recognition for aspiring female athletes in the sport.