Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraw Booter Carmela Altiche envisions a brighter future for football after her historic recognition as the inaugural University Athletics Association of The Philippines (UAAP) Women’s Football Player of the Year by the San Miguel Corporation-Collegiate Press Corps (SMC-CPC) last June 20.

“This award can lead to increased support and sponsors, which are important for the growth of the sport and for grassroots programs. It’s a huge help because now it’s not just one or two sports being recognized in the Philippines. Hopefully, more will be acknowledged in the coming years because every athlete deserves to be recognized, no matter what sport they choose,” Altiche shared in an online interview with FEU Advocate.

During their 3-2 win over De La Salle University in the Season 87 finals, the Lady Tamaraw delivered a crucial cross in the 67th minute, securing a three-peat championship for FEU and ultimately earning her the Most Valuable Player award.

With the season marking her final year, she expressed her gratitude for the recognition and dedicated her success to her teammates and the football community.

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful, especially since I’m the first woman footballer to be recognized with this award. This achievement makes me feel proud not only of myself but also of my team—and for the football community as a whole. Finally, we’re seen,” she said.

Ending her college career on a high note, the standout athlete extended her best wishes toward her teammates for the upcoming season.

“I feel like this win will serve as motivation not just for me but also for my teammates to give their best. I know my teammates, and for sure, mas gagalingan nila. I believe they can achieve what I achieved,” the green-and-gold athlete shared.

Previously honoring only volleyball and basketball athletes, this serves as the first time the CPC has presented a Player of the Year award for football from both the UAAP and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). 

Altiche, along with first-ever UAAP Men’s Football Player of the Year recipient Tamaraw Booter Mon Diansuy and San Beda University’s Amir Aningalan of the NCAA, are among the athletes to be honored at the SMC-CPC Awards Night on June 30 at the Discovery Suites in Ortigas, Pasig City. 

- Krizza Gabrielle Tabora

(Photo courtesy of Jannah Hilario/FEU Athletics)