Claret School of Quezon City emerged as a dominant force in youth football after clinching two championship titles at the prestigious Blueguards Cup 2024, held on April 5 at the Ateneo Moro Lorenzo and Ocampo Fields. The school’s Under-15 and Under-9 boys’ teams—both Claret-A squads—showcased skill, grit, and composure as they conquered their respective divisions in dramatic fashion.
U15: Back-to-Back Champions
The Claret-A Under-15 team successfully defended their title, defeating Eltra FC of Palawan in a thrilling penalty shootout, 2–0. With the match locked in a tense stalemate at full time, the Claretians remained composed under pressure. Jacob Monte and Dwayne Aritao, two of the youngest members of the squad and recent additions to the UAAP Juniors team, calmly converted their penalties to secure the win. The victory marked Claret’s second consecutive championship in the tournament.
Earlier in the semifinals, Claret-A overcame a tough challenge from Ilocos United FC in yet another nail-biting shootout. Monte, Aritao, Chase Aquino, Janssen Sale, Ethan Flores, and Doni Castañeda all found the back of the net, while goalkeeper Jared Grino delivered a clutch save to lift the team to a 6–5 triumph and a spot in the finals.
U9: Young Guns Rise to the Occasion
The Claret-A Under-9 team also delivered a golden performance, emerging as champions in their division after outlasting Antipolo FC in a penalty shootout. Miggy Ventura and Marcelo Ele III scored confidently for Claret, while the team’s solid defensive effort forced Antipolo to miss all their attempts.
Strong Overall Campaign
Adding to the school’s impressive showing, Claret’s ‘B’ teams also made their mark. The U15-B team, composed of promising 14-year-old talents, clinched third place, while the U9-B team finished as third runner-up—a testament to the depth of Claret’s football program and its commitment to developing young athletes.
Claret School’s double victory at the Blueguards Cup not only underscores its excellence in grassroots football but also highlights the school’s continuing legacy of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship on and off the pitch.
