A Blue Eagle’s Purpose
As he goes down from the hill, two-time champion and MVP, four-time best striker, phenom of Philippine football, and graduating senior Jarvey Gayoso shares what it means to bleed blue as an athlete.
What does it mean to be an Ignatian athlete?
Throughout my years in Ateneo, I’ve always encountered Latin and English phrases. A lot of these sayings speak of proper formation as a student and as a child of God. 'Magis,’ ‘ad majorem Dei gloriam,’ ‘Lux in Domino,’ and ‘cura personalis’ are some of the most frequently spoken phrases that an Atenean encounters. But what stands out for me is the phrase ‘men and women for others.’ This is the character that the Ateneo education embodies.
The whole idea of a greater purpose outside of yourself is what sets Ateneo apart. This Ignatian value teaches us to utilize our best abilities for a purpose other than ourselves. This education I’ve received stretches way beyond the confines of the classroom. I have learned to give purpose through the various programs I have willingly prepared for, such as our various immersion experiences. The programs we go through give us a sense of appreciation for what has been bestowed upon us, and it greatly increases awareness of the power we have to make a change.
As an athlete, I find my purpose through football. As a player, I encounter all kinds of people from different nationalities, financial, and cultural backgrounds. The great thing about sports is that you do not need to come from a wealthy family. All you need is a passion for it. Sports brings everyone together through one thing in common— the desire to play the sport.
Through the teachings of Ateneo, I have learned to use my skills to reach out to others who share the same passion as me but do not have the proper support for it. Teaching and passing down to a generation of talent is what I work hard for.
I work to get better in my game, which translates to getting higher credibility for football as a sport. Sports gives people opportunities to do something better for themselves. Through football, I received the opportunity of a lifetime to study under the Ateneo education through an athletic scholarship. In return, I work to give those with a passion for football a chance to improve their lives too.
To me, it’s all about mindset and character. Through its programs and the years you walk along its halls, Ateneo education finds its ways to form the proper student, athlete, and person you are destined to be.
I am excited to have finally achieved this long-term goal of mine. Equipped with the teachings and values of Ateneo, I am excited to experience the world. Going ‘down from the hill’ signifies one’s opportunity to experience the world beyond the confines of our Loyola Schools campus. As I push towards achieving my new set of goals in life, I am certain that Ateneo has prepared me holistically to persevere even through the toughest of setbacks.
Thank you for the incredible and life-changing journey, Ateneo!
