AGS debuts first girls’ football team with podium finish

The inaugural girls’ football team of the Ateneo de Manila Grade School marked a historic milestone for the institution. Competing as the only all-girls team in the Under 6 Division, they achieved a 2nd Runner-Up finish in the Dream Big Tournament held on November 8, 2025, at the Aboitiz Pitch in Lipa City, Batangas. Representing the Blue Eagles were Lexie Enerio (2–Talisay), Anya Silva (2–Banaba), Cassiegh Abad (2–Ipil), Mia Sto. Domingo (1–Malinis), Tala Lorenzo (2–Kamagong), Charlie Dela Cruz (1–Malusog), Lara Martinez (K–Rosas), and Gabrielle Martinez (K–Mabaya), under the guidance of Head Coach Joyce Semacio.

As the only all-girls team in the competition, the Blue Eagles earned the admiration of spectators and opposing squads for their courage, sportsmanship, and teamwork. Facing mixed-gender teams, the girls displayed skill and determination beyond their years, taking home not just a medal but the respect of the football community. Their strong performance showed that this fledgling program is already capable of rising to the challenge.

The team now looks ahead to further cultivating their love for the sport through continued training and more competitive opportunities. The steady growth of the program would not have been possible without the support of Ateneo de Manila Football Program Head Bob Manlulo and AGS Athletics Coordinator Sean Alli, who helped bring the team to life from its inception early this year until its official formation in June 2025. Their efforts—and the girls’ achievement—signal the promising beginnings of a legacy for girls’ football at Ateneo and a step toward broadening opportunities for the sport across the Grade School.

If this inaugural podium finish is any indication, the future of girls’ football at Ateneo is bright. The Blue Eagles’ youngest sisters have just taken flight.

Congratulations to Ateneo’s pioneering girls’ football team—the first of many milestones to come.