Christmas is…

The Yuletide season is ripe with thoughts of love, spiritual renewal, good tidings and joy as Christendom celebrates the birth of Jesus. Each year we ask ourselves what Christmas means to us. Let’s hear it from the people we look up to in sports.

Alyssa Valdez, Shakey’s V-League superstar

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Christmas is a time to be stressed out because you want to be stressed out doing things for the people you love or for everyone’s love, Jesus Christ.

James Yap, Rain or Shine chief gunner:

James Yap. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Christmas is all about spending time with the family and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s that time of year when basketball is farthest from my mind.

Marestella Torres, three-time Olympian long jumper

AP

Christmas is all about loving and giving. And to complete my Christmas, I need to complete all the celebrations of the Simbang Gabi.

Hidilyn Diaz, Rio Olympics weightlifting silver medalist

Christmas is the time to celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth and his love for us. A joyful time together with the family, friends and loved ones.

Aby Maraño, F2 Logistics middle blocker

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Christmas for me is about sharing love and happiness not only with your family and friends but also with people you might not even know.

Francis Casey Alcantara, PH Davis Cup mainstay

Francis Casey ALCANTARA. Photo from ITFTennis.com

Christmas is family time. This is the only time I’m home for two weeks after a full year of tennis. Also a time with friends who, like me, are also busy during the year.