FEU, La Salle favored in UAAP chess

Far Eastern University goes for a league-best sixth straight men’s title while La Salle eyes its second consecutive title when the UAAP chess competitions open on January 14 at the FEU Mini Theater in Manila.

The Tamaraws, led by last season’s Most Valuable Player Sheider Nebato, seek to duplicate La Salle’s string of titles from the 1999-2000 to 2005-2006 season.

FEU tallied 45.5 points in the 14-round tournament to take the Season 73 title in runaway fashion. The Tamaraws notched the title nine points ahead of University of Santo Tomas for their 12th title, a league-high.

“I’m happy that the school is very supporting of the team, especially those who came over from the provinces not only to study but also to help FEU win the titles,” said FEU coach GM Jayson Gonzales.

The Lady Archers took last season’s tournament with 45 points with the Tigresses in second with 37.5 and FEU with 31.5.

Jodilyn Fronda had one of the most outstanding accomplishments in the UAAP last year bagging the MVP and Rookie of the Year as well as the title for the Lady Archers.

FEU is also seeking a crown in the juniors tournament as it goes for a back-to-back.

The Baby Tamaraws will rely on Jerad Docena, last season’s MVP and Rookie of the Year awardees, in this year’s contest.

Chess is part of the UAAP’s second semester calendar which includes softball, baseball, football and athletics. Volleyball is underway while fencing recently held its tournament with UE and UST claiming the women’s and men’s crown respectively.

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