UAAP seniors could be eligible again for Season 83

FILE – UAAP Season 82 opening ceremony at Mall of Asia Arena. UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—UAAP’s graduating seniors, whose final year in the league was foiled by the cancelation of the games last month due to the coronavirus pandemic, could still return for Season 83.

Board member Rod Roque of University of the East confirmed to Inquirer that graduating student-athletes, who played in the second semester of the canceled season, could still play in Season 83 if they fit the criteria set by the league.

This moved was approved after the UAAP Board convened on April 30.

The first rule of eligibility for the seniors is that should not be over 25-years-old during Season 83.

If already graduated from the school, student-athletes should also take up a second bachelor’s degree or enroll at the graduate school to be able to play.

“They are still qualified to play as long as they are still 25-years-old,” said Roque. “The student-athletes can enroll to a second degree or at the graduate school.”

“This is for the second semester sporting events, they [student-athletes] can still play as long as they haven’t used up their five playing years and they’re still of age,” said Roque.

Season 82’s second semester sports were canceled after the national government declared enhanced community quarantine in Luzon to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The volleyball, football, baseball, softball, athletics, lawn tennis, basketball 3×3, ballroom formation dance, and streetdance competitions were all affected.