Binibining Pilipinas 2014 2nd Runner-Up Laura Lehmann was hand-picked among hundreds of talented hopefuls and will be reporting on the sidelines at ABS-CBN Sports + Action when UAAP opens on July 12.
Beauty queen, Ateneo Psychology Major and now a bonafide sportscaster, the multi-hyphenate Binibini expresses her excitement over her new role. “I’m very excited about being a UAAP Courtside Reporter. I love the passion, excitement and momentum that basketball creates and I can’t wait to immerse myself in the sport!” She adds, “My first love is sports, and before joining Binibining Pilipinas in January, I played on the Philippine National Team for Fast-Pitch softball. I just love being active—I love to run or work-out in any way that I could.”
Auditions were not easy and Laura admits she had a tough time. “It was so difficult! Besides being very well-versed in the game itself, we had to be knowledgeable not just about our own teams, but also about every other team in the UAAP—including history, record, coaches background, players info including height, nicknames, jersey numbers, positions, etc! We had to make “mini-manuals” that recorded all this information, because as reporters we are required to be informed about the subjects we report on.” But Laura showcased her intelligence, charm and confidence and landed the job.
Asked about how Laura will juggle the three demanding roles, she shares, “I will certainly need good time-management skills to juggle all three! But I think that if you’re passionate about what you’re doing, then that passion will lead to drive, determination, and motivation to succeed.”
Laura will be busy with preparations as UAAP Courtside Reporter on the lead up to the 77th Season opening, and will be receiving sports casting training from ABS-CBN. She is also brushing up on stats and figures of the Ateneo team, reading up on UAAP history and getting to know the players.
Thankful and determined, Laura pulls strength from her support group. “I just want to thank my supporters for always being that despite my setbacks and failures. I will work hard and do my best to make them proud.”