Photo by Angeline San Pedro/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
The UP Women’s Badminton Varsity Team came into UAAP Season 88 with a championship to defend, only to watch their reign slip away and settle for bronze in a season that proved far more unforgiving than expected. Despite retaining the core that carried them to the title in UAAP Season 87 and adding fresh firepower to an already formidable lineup, the Fighting Maroons found themselves unable to mount the title defense they had envisioned. An injury-riddled campaign tested the depth and resolve of the squad, with key players battling setbacks that made the road back to the top even steeper. Even as injuries reshaped their season, they refused to let adversity define their campaign, fighting their way to a podium finish and carrying the same Fighting Maroon spirit that now drives them to rise again.
This UAAP Season 89, the fight carries even more weight as four seniors enter their final year in the collegiate league. Three have been central figures in the Fighting Maroons’ program in recent seasons, serving as key pieces of the lineup and helping uphold the standard of UP’s badminton program, the winningest in UAAP history, with just one championship separating them from Ateneo.
For the veterans, the season offers one final opportunity to contend for the crown. For the younger Maroons, it is a chance to build on the lessons of the past and help carry the program forward.
Gonzalez Serving Her Final Legacy
Photo from: The UAAP
Season 85 Rookie of the Year and Season 87 MVP Anthea Marie Gonzalez, when asked how she wants to be remembered after making her mark in previous seasons, shared, “I want to leave a legacy of reminding everyone to enjoy the journey, kasi hindi na natin maibabalik yung mga moments na ’to. I hope my teammates don’t put too much pressure on themselves, kasi hindi naman everyday is your day. Just do your best, trust the process, and pray.”
Beyond the titles and accolades, the senior leader emphasizes that her true priority is instilling mutual respect and support within the squad.
“For me, badminton is not just about the awards or the wins, but also about the people you share the journey with. If I can leave that kind of mindset and culture with the team, I think that would be a meaningful legacy for me.”
Gonzalez’ collegiate career is moving at the same breakneck speed as her game on the court. As she enters her final UAAP season, she does so with a Fighting Maroons roster determined to rally behind her and pursue the championship together, giving her final campaign a shared purpose beyond individual accolades.
Ramos’ Road to Redemption
Photo by Jake Rovin Morales/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
The UP program’s prodigy, Susmita “Sushi” Ramos, was part of the national team during her rookie year and has since become a crucial piece of the Fighting Maroons, earning a consistent spot in the lineup and playing a key role in the team’s UAAP campaigns.
Looking back on her journey, Ramos candidly recalls how it took time to fully integrate into the squad, as her hectic rookie schedule was split between collegiate duties and national team training. While those friendships blossomed later, the connections she eventually formed became all the more genuine and special. Now regarded as the team’s ate, Ramos considers her teammates family. “I will give and do anything for them to succeed and kahit paano gumaan [yung] burden nila,” she shared.
Throughout her years at UP, Ramos has displayed exceptional talent on the court, though her journey has had its share of setbacks. In the UAAP Season 88 semifinals against NU, with the tie level at 2-all following a walkover loss due to Kimberly Lao’s sudden injury, Ramos stepped up for the deciding singles match. Despite a lumbar strain that restricted her movement, she battled through three grueling sets before ultimately falling short.
Beyond her tactical intelligence and patient approach to attacks, Ramos’ resilience has remained a defining aspect of her game. Unafraid to take risks and learn from difficult losses, she continues to push forward despite the challenges she faces. Now entering her final UAAP campaign, she carries that same determination into one last pursuit of the title.
“I want this season to be a golden [and] memorable experience for me and for the girls. The previous season was really a disappointment kasi alam ko sa sarili ko na higit pa [doon] yung kaya ko at kaya namin,” Ramos said. “For this final season, I really prepared, put my heart, and worked harder. Binigay ko at binuhos lahat ng makakaya ko tuwing training, nilalabanan ang pagod at lungkot para makamit ulit ang aming pinapangarap. This is a redemption season for us. Marami sa amin galing injury last season; this is our and my final opportunity to show them that we are standing taller, bolder, and stronger together.”
As she enters her final UAAP season as team captain, Ramos hopes to turn the disappointment of Season 88 into a stronger campaign, channeling the lessons of her setbacks into UP’s pursuit of the championship.
Lao’s Fight Back
Photo from: The UAAP
A key figure in UP’s doubles lineup since Season 85, Kimberly “Kimy” Lao played a crucial role in the Fighting Maroons’ Season 87 championship run alongside Anthea Gonzalez, with their victory securing the title.
Their bid to defend the crown in Season 88, however, was cut short when Lao sustained a sudden injury during their semifinal match against NU’s Diaz and Mabale. Forced away from competition to recover, she faced uncertainty over whether she could return to the court.
Her determination to play again grew as she revisited memories of UP’s championship run. After months of rehabilitation and training, Lao returned to competition at the September 2026 MIA Badminton Challenge Cup, where she and Ramos won the Open Women’s Doubles title, defeating fellow Fighting Maroons Gonzalez and Paz in the final.
“After my injury, I thought it was going to be the end of my career. Akala ko di na ako makakabalik sa paglalaro ng badminton. But during the months na malayo ako sa badminton, pinapanood ko yung moment na nag-champion kami. Dito ko na-realize na gusto ko pa rin talaga mag-badminton, na gusto kong bumawi. Sinabi ko sa sarili ko na I don’t want last year’s ending, and I don’t want that kind of ending, na ma-injure at mag-bronze, to be my last.”
With Season 89 approaching, Lao doubled down on rehabilitation and training, determined to return with confidence in her body and abilities.
“I am super grateful to my physical therapist, PT Garret, for guiding me and walking with me throughout my recovery. A big thank you to PT, our UP badminton coaches, managers, teammates, and my family for still believing in me. Dahil sa mga taong ito, kinaya kong bumalik at tiisin ang hirap ng pagbabalanse ng rehab, training, at acads.”
Her road back was far from easy, with doubts accompanying the challenge of recovering from her injury. Still, Lao remains focused on making the most of her return.
“My ideal comeback is stepping into the court once more with full trust in my body as well as my capabilities as an athlete. I don’t want to waste this opportunity to prove that, coming back after 10 months, I can still be the best version of myself.”
Beyond her personal comeback, Lao hopes to help UP recreate the championship moments of Season 87. Above all, she wants the team to play with the same dedication and unity that brought them together, carrying the Fighting Maroons’ fight for redemption into Season 89.
“My goal for my team is that we can recreate the same moments of Season 87. Kung hindi man kayanin, basta maipakita namin yung best na laro namin, lalo na yung teamwork at dedication ng bawat isa. Na ang bawat laro namin ay di lang para sa sarili o teammates, pero para sa UP. Kaya sa women’s team, alam kong kaya natin ‘to!”
De Leon’s Last Fight in Maroon
Photo by Trisha Llaguno/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
Rounding out UP’s senior roster is Patricia De Leon, a transferee from UST and the Season 86 Rookie of the Year, who spent two seasons with the UST Lady Shuttlers before making the move to Diliman. After serving her residency in Season 88, De Leon is set to make her UAAP debut for the Fighting Maroons in her final collegiate season. Among the key reasons behind her transfer was the opportunity to share the court with her younger sister, incoming sophomore Krissa De Leon, as well as to play with less pressure.
Beyond the family reunion, the move has also offered De Leon a refreshing change of pace. Speaking at the 2025 FDG Cup, she shared how UP’s deep and competitive lineup allowed her to play with less pressure, free from the expectation of having to win every match. This shift has given her more room to play with ease, a change reflected in her promising preseason performances ahead of Season 89.
Looking ahead to the Fighting Maroons’ redemption campaign, De Leon embraces both the excitement and the nerves that come with her debut. “The no-pressure mindset is still there. Yes, I tend to be a little anxious, but I know that if I didn’t fight [through] this anxiousness, how would I fight [at] my best? I know I worked hard for this since this will be my last shot in the UAAP, and even if I may not perform well in some matches, I know my teammates have my back [and will] win for me. I just need to stay grounded and fight again for the team and the entire UP community,” she shared.
For her final year on the court, De Leon’s primary goal is to continue growing and leave everything on the court. She added that what remains for her to prove as an athlete is her commitment to becoming better than her yesterday self. “Since this is my final season, I will do my very best to fight and to win for myself and the team.”
De Leon’s long-awaited debut in the maroon jersey is one to watch. With her residency behind her and her final collegiate season ahead, she brings proven skill, maturity, and added depth to UP’s lineup. As she steps onto the court for her last UAAP campaign, De Leon has the chance to turn the lessons from her journey into a triumphant new chapter, one she is determined to make count for herself, her team, and the UP community.
Forging the Next Line
While four seniors prepare for their final UAAP campaign, UP’s pursuit of the championship will also depend on the players who have yet to reach their full potential in the collegiate league. From returning contributors seeking to regain their form to rookies preparing for the demands of UAAP competition, the younger Maroons have their own roles to play in the team’s response to last season’s setback.
Their stories reflect different stages of development, but each offers a glimpse of how UP hopes to build on its established core while preparing the next generation to take on greater responsibility.
Back on Court, Back for the Crown
Photo by Angeline San Pedro/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
Rookie-champion Dianne Libaton was a notable absence from UP’s Season 88 campaign after a shoulder injury sidelined her from competition. A vital part of the Fighting Maroons’ Season 87 championship run, she formed a formidable doubles partnership with Ramos, combining sharp court awareness, quick reflexes, and aggressive play to help UP take the lead in the championship tie before Lao and Gonzalez sealed the title.
Libaton’s injury, however, began long before she stepped away from competition. First experiencing sharp shoulder pain in March 2024, she chose to play through UAAP Season 87 despite medical recommendations for surgery. Her recovery would involve two operations, extensive rehabilitation, and several treatments before she was finally cleared to compete again in March 2026.
After a lengthy period away from the court, Libaton returns with a renewed appreciation for the opportunity to play.
“I feel 100% confident now, and I am ready to perform at my best, not just physically but mentally as well,” she shared.
Rather than looking too far ahead, Libaton is focused on the things she can control and on making her return count for the people who supported her throughout recovery.
“My goal is just to focus on things I can control, and to play with all my best for the team, for the school, and for the people na nanatiling sumusuporta at naniniwala sa akin, while not forgetting to also enjoy all the moments and progress throughout this season,” she said.
After a prolonged recovery and a strong preseason showing, Libaton returns ready to fight for UP’s reclaimed crown, carrying the lessons of her road back.
Rookie on the Rise
Photo by Trisha Llaguno/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
Incoming rookie Cindee Marchan arrives in Diliman with a clear priority: helping UP win the UAAP championship. She made an encouraging impression during the preseason, reaching the semifinals of the FDG Cup 2026 in women’s doubles alongside Gonzalez.
Having competed from a young age, Marchan has also documented her badminton journey on social media, sharing her experiences and inspiring aspiring athletes. Despite drawing interest from other schools, she ultimately chose UP for its academic reputation and the sense of purpose she found in the decision.
“I chose UP because of its good education, and I felt like it was the right place for me,” she shared. “God also gave me many signs to choose UP, so I trusted His plan for me.”
As she prepares to make the jump to collegiate competition, Marchan is keeping individual recognition secondary to the team’s collective goal.
“My main goal is to help UP win the UAAP championship. Rookie of the Year would be a bonus. I know many rookies are also aiming for that award, but I’ll do my best in every game. I believe the UP Women’s Team already has what it takes to win.”
She also hopes to bring the same work ethic and fighting attitude that helped her reach the collegiate level.
“Sa part ko naman, siguro since UP chose me because I’m hardworking, determined, and a fighter on court. I’ll bring that attitude to every match to help the team win. I never give up easily.”
For Marchan, her rookie season is an opportunity to translate that determination into meaningful contributions as she joins a squad intent on returning to the top.
Debut with a Purpose
Photo by Trisha Llaguno/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
After two years with the Fighting Maroons, sophomore Keicy Condeno is set to make her UAAP debut following a strong preseason campaign. She claimed silver at the 2026 HKFC & TORQ Sports Mixed Championships and bronze in Open Women’s Doubles alongside Marchan at the 2026 MIA Badminton Challenge Cup.
Beyond her individual development, Condeno is motivated by the seniors whose final UAAP season she has witnessed approaching over the past two years. Their last campaign gives her debut a significance beyond her own aspirations.
“I want to be the kind of player that people in badminton will look up to, not just sa age group ko but also at the open level. My goal this season is maging worth it and best yung last dance ng four seniors ko.” she shared.
As she enters the collegiate stage, Condeno hopes to maintain her competitive drive without losing sight of what makes the sport meaningful to her.
“I want to [further develop] or maintain my hunger to win every game while also having fun [doing so], because I personally believe that I wouldn’t be able to achieve all [those] wins if I didn’t [allow] myself to enjoy not just the process but also the game itself.”
Her debut presents an opportunity to grow as a player while helping make the seniors’ final campaign a memorable one.
Built for the Fight Ahead
Photo from: The UAAP
Third-year shuttler Anielka Paz enters UAAP Season 89 with added confidence after reaching the semifinals of the 2026 MIA Badminton Challenge Cup alongside Gonzalez. Known for her power and adaptability in doubles, Paz continues to offer versatility to UP’s lineup.
For Paz, however, preseason results matter less than the quality of her performance and the team’s ability to execute on court.
“Winning an award is just a bonus. What is more important is that we play at our best. Once we play a good game, the wins will follow,” she shared.
Her round-of-36 and round-of-16 finishes at the FDG Cup and PNBO, respectively, also gave her opportunities to assess her game before the new season. The MIA result offered encouragement, but she and her teammates returned to training focused on improving further.
With four seniors approaching their final UAAP campaign, Paz recognizes the importance of making the most of the season together.
“The juniors, sophomores, and rookies prepared well for this season because we want to give a good exit for the seniors,” she said.
For Paz and the rest of the younger roster, the challenge is to turn their preparation into consistent performances when the season begins, giving the graduating players a stronger supporting cast in the championship chase.
More to Prove, More to Give
Photo by Jethro Villafuerte/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
Coming off a Rookie of the Year campaign, Brys Fuggan enters UAAP Season 89 with higher expectations and a renewed determination to prove herself. While the pressure is there, she is more excited than afraid, eager to show that her rookie season was no fluke.
“Excited ako mapakita and ma-prove na last year’s season is not a one-time thing only para sa’kin,” she shared, pointing to her performance at PNBO 2026 as just a glimpse of what she has to offer.
Her drive for redemption also stems from last season’s semifinal loss, where she felt she came unprepared. This time, Fuggan is ready to take on whatever role the team needs, determined to make every match a fight until the very end.
“Sisiguraduhin ko na I won’t give away an easy match. We won’t give away any easy match, kaming UP. We will fight and play as one.”
With her Rookie of the Year campaign behind her, Fuggan now faces the challenge of building on that success. Beyond meeting expectations, she aims to continue growing into a dependable presence in UP’s lineup and cementing her place as one of the team’s key players in the seasons ahead.
Poised to Make Her Mark
Photo by Hero Dela Peña/ UP Fighting Maroons Club
Incoming sophomore Krissa De Leon has shown her versatility across the preseason circuit, clinching the mixed doubles title at the 2026 MIA Badminton Challenge Cup and competing in women’s doubles with her older sister, Pat, at the FDG Cup 2026 and PNBO 2026.
The sisters also tested themselves against seasoned competition, putting up a strong fight against former UP Women’s Badminton Varsity Team player and national team campaigner Leanor Inlayo and her national team partner, Pinlac.
As Krissa prepares for another season with the Fighting Maroons, she hopes to translate her preseason performances into consistent contributions.
“My ultimate goal po talaga is to perform great together with my teammates. I want to be able to show my best in each match, and of course, I also really want to win alongside the whole UP team as well,” she shared.
“I think I can contribute well in our upcoming UAAP a lot by showing my fighting spirit inside the court, and also by cheering my teammates in every game,” she added.
Season 89 also carries personal significance for Krissa, who will compete alongside Pat in her older sister’s final UAAP campaign. Having partnered long before joining UP, the two bring years of familiarity and trust to the court.
“It really means a lot, especially since my sister is also my official partner even before she was part of the UP team,” Krissa said.
“Fighting alongside her and representing UP together motivates me a lot, as I know what she is capable of. Having her with us gives me more confidence in fighting every game,” she added.
Their partnership adds another dimension to the season ahead. For Krissa, competing alongside Pat is both a source of confidence and an opportunity to make the most of a final UAAP campaign they can share.
Bound by Sisterhood, Driven by Redemption
As UAAP Season 89 unfolds, the Fighting Maroons set their sights on redemption and UP’s 11th UAAP Women’s Badminton title. With a squad as complete as it is determined, they return ready to turn last season’s bronze finish into another championship run. The veterans bring hard-earned lessons from the battles that shaped them, while the younger Maroons stand ready to carry the fight forward.
But reclaiming the crown will take more than talent across the lineup. It will demand the trust to play for one another, the resolve to weather setbacks, and the sisterhood that has carried them through both triumph and defeat. Bound by the same dream and driven by unfinished business, the Fighting Maroons enter Season 89 with more than a title to chase. They have a legacy to uphold and an 11th crown to bring home to Diliman.
This UP Fighting Maroons Club post is in partnership with:
KFC & Jiang Nan Hotpot
KFC & Jiang Nan Hotpot
