Davao Strikers FC Clinches 7-Under Title in 89th Araw ng Davao Football Festival
The Davao Strikers Football Club (FC) emerged victorious in the seven-under division of the 89th Araw ng Davao Football Festival, held on March 28–29, 2026, at Tionko Football Field in Davao City. The team capped an impressive unbeaten run with a decisive 3-1 victory over Tagum Palm Game in the finals, showcasing exceptional teamwork and skill throughout the tournament.
Dominant Performance and Unbeaten Streak
Under the guidance of coach Murphy Jake Somosot, the Davao Strikers FC dominated the competition from start to finish. They swept the elimination round against seven local teams and continued their momentum into the semifinals, where they routed Lionslamb with a commanding 5-0 score to advance to the championship match. This flawless performance highlighted their rapid development since the team was formed in June 2025, demonstrating significant progress in less than a year.
Individual Honors and Team Roster
The Strikers not only secured the team title but also collected several individual awards. Coach Somosot was named best coach, while Sage Yzekiel P. Mariscotes earned the most valuable player (MVP) award. Additional honors included Edelle Cersei M. Arellano as best striker, Leon Ragnar P. Correa as best defender, and Lonzo Ezekiel T. Lar as best goalkeeper. The team roster features talented young players such as Liam Grey D. Maningo, Reene Indra M. Maloloy-on, John Kristoff A. Pines, and Greord Gered T. Matobato, all contributing to the club's success.
Focus on Discipline and Character Development
Coach Somosot emphasized that the team's triumph stemmed from a holistic approach to training, prioritizing discipline and character development over mere physical drills. He stated, "Our preparation is more than physical. More than the drills, we focused on nurturing discipline and character of every child. I believe a player is more teachable when he listens and has a heart to learn, compared to a player who is good but does not have the attitude. We won because the team learned to value hard work and respect for each other." This philosophy underscores the program's commitment to fostering not only athletic prowess but also personal growth among the players.
Beyond Trophies: A Commitment to Player Growth
Despite the championship win, Somosot reiterated that the primary goal remains player development, with a focus on character building and a genuine love for the game. He added, "While we are honored by these championships, we remain mindful that the true victory is seeing the players grow in character and love for the game. We simply focused on the daily progress of the children. These championships are a beautiful byproduct of their passion and the parents’ trust in our program." This perspective highlights the club's dedication to long-term success and the well-being of its young athletes, ensuring that trophies are seen as milestones rather than the ultimate objective.
