DAVAO CITY — Pilipinas Sambo staged a five-day training program for young athletes in a bid to develop future members of the national squad.

Pilipinas Sambo president Paolo Tancontian said they successfully wrapped up their grassroots event last Wednesday at the Jose P. Rizal Elementary School covered court here, where they spotted some young athletes who have the potential to represent the country in major international events.

Aside from making it to the national team, potential talents can also land scholarships in major colleges and universities in Metro Manila should they earn the nod of coaches, scouts and talent evaluators.

“Our goal is not only to promote sambo but also to help young athletes earn scholarships and opportunities to study and compete for top universities using the sport as a stepping stone for their personal and athletic growth,” said Tancontian, referring to the program that drew the support of the Philippine Sports Commission.

Leading the five-day clinic was national coach Ace Larida, who was satisfied with the huge turnout of athletes, most of them coming from public schools.

Larida cited the success of his former students Janry Pamor and Cresante Navares, who both blossomed in the similar program they rolled out at the Leon Garcias National High School in 2017.

“Both athletes, now scholars at the University of Sto. Tomas, have competed in international Sambo competitions and are prime examples of how grassroots programs can lead to success on the global stage,” Larida said during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum at the SM City Davao recently.

He said potential athletes should follow the footsteps of Pamor and Navares not just for their personal growth but also for the strengthening and promotion of the sport in the country.