SEAG bets: No-pay, no-play deadline up

The Philippine women’s netball team is nearing peak form for next month’s 28th Southeast Asian Games along with some athletes from shooting, traditional boat race and floorball.

But unless their respective associations pay their entry fees tomorrow, they won’t be allowed to join the national delegation for the June 5-16 SEAG in Singapore.

“I’ve set the final deadline (May 15). They will not be allowed to play if they cannot pay,” said PH chef de mision Julian Camacho.

Filipino athletes from netball (12 players), traditional boat (8 women paddlers), shooting (6) and floorball (20) were included in the delegation of 472 athletes from 35 sports on condition that they foot the bill for their participation.

The netball squad opens its bid against Thailand on May 31 at the OCBC Arena.

Camacho said the Philippine Sports Commission will spend at least P39 million for the Games with the sports agency shelling out roughly P60,000 for each member of the delegation, which covers airfare, accommodation and allowances.

“They were notified to settle the amount last April 30, but so far only the women’s water polo team had complied,” said the treasurer of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

PSC chair Richie Garcia earlier announced that athletes who paid their way to compete would be reimbursed the full amount plus cash incentives if they win medals.