UAAP drummers call for inclusion to cheerdance event

In an interesting scenario, the drummers might not be around when the UAAP Cheerdance Competition takes place on Sunday. UAAP Season 84 Media Team (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The drummer groups of the eight UAAP member schools have called on the league executives to allow them to play their percussions during the league's cheerdance event on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

A joint statement signed by the eight captains of the said booster teams on Thursday reads that the drumming teams should be allowed to participate in the cheerdance competition like how they have been cleared to perform in the men's basketball and the women's volleyball tournaments.

"We, the UAAP drummers, are grateful that the UAAP has allowed us to participate in the UAAP Season 84 events such as the men's basketball tournament and the ongoing women's volleyball tournament. However, we believe it would only be right for us to also have a place during the iconic UAAP Cheerdance Competition," the UAAP drummers said in the statement.

The drummers added, "Drums bring life and excitement to the crowd and encourage every UAAP fan to cheer proudly for their school."

According to reports, the UAAP did not allow the drummers to participate in the cheerdance event, but the reason has not been disclosed.

The drummers, however, insisted that the cheerdance competition, which will be making a comeback after two years of absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will give the crowd a chance to cheer along properly with the drumbeats.

"The return of the CDC is a chance for rookies and new viewers to fully experience the cheer spirit with the beat of the drums supporting their own schools and their fellow universities. This event will not be complete without us, the UAAP drummers," the statement concluded.

The league has yet to respond to this appeal as of posting, although a press conference has been scheduled later Thursday during the lull in women's volleyball action at the MOA Arena to discuss the cheerdance event further.

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