PSC eyes consolidated sports calendar

The Philippine Sports Commission is looking to have a consolidated national sports calendar in a bid to create a comprehensive grassroots sports program and produce more world-class athletes.

PSC chairperson Richard Bachmann said having a consolidated sports calendar will enable them to boost the grassroots that would lead to the development of future members of the national squad.

"We have to continue to cultivate the grassroots in order to feed the elite level with fresh talents," Bachmann said.

"We do not have a lot of resources so a consolidated calendar would help us all avoid duplications, overlaps and allow us to prepare better."

Bachmann and commissioners Olivia "Bong" Coo, Walter Torres and Edward Hayco are doing the rounds with various national teams, sports associations, training venues and stakeholders over the past couple of months to address the needs of grassroots athletes.

This week, the PSC board visited Cebu and dropped by the Cebu City Sports Commission, Cebu City Local School Board and Cebu City Sports Center to observe different local sports.

The PSC officials also took part in the launching of the Guinness world attempt for the largest rhythmic gymnastics hula hoop workout.

They also graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the PSC Regional Training Center for weightlifting, which was also attended by Tokyo Olympian Elreen Ando.

The Carreta, Cebu City native is a current member of the Philippine weightlifting team and a product of Batang Pinoy, one of the PSC's long-time centerpiece grassroots programs.

The PSC is also set to establish satellite offices all over the country to make sure the national sports agency has point persons to oversee the grassroots program in their respective areas.

"This is a good way to have more Elreen Andos, and Hidilyn Diazes in Philippine sports," the PSC chief added.

"I hope we can develop more homegrown talent and strengthen our national team, and to nourish our chances of winning more Olympic gold medals in the future."