Sam Alegre: Leading the Tigers with Grit and Vision

Leading the Tigers into Season 88

For Sam Alegre, captain of the University of Santo Tomas men’s football team, leadership goes beyond wearing the armband. After steering the Tigers to the UAAP Season 87 semifinals, where they bowed to Ateneo, Alegre knows exactly what his squad needs to climb higher in Season 88: unity, mental toughness, and belief.

“Bilang isa sa mga leaders ng team, ang focus ko ay magtulungan kami at magsanib-puwersa,” Alegre said. “After last season, nakita namin kung ano yung kailangan naming ayusin. Kailangan naming mas maging malakas emotionally and mentally, at yung mga natutunan namin last year, gagamitin namin para mag-improve this season.”

Building Chemistry and Discipline

UST’s preseason preparations centered on strengthening chemistry, cohesion, and resilience. More than tactics, the Tigers have emphasized communication, trust, and consistency.

“Ang pinakamalaking adjustment namin ay yung pagiging cohesive bilang isang grupo,” Alegre explained. “Mas intense din ang strength and conditioning, kasi kailangan talaga ready physically. Guidance din ng coaches sobrang laki ng naging role para mabigyan kami ng direksyon.”

Preseason games and training camps gave the Tigers a clearer picture of who they are and what they can be. “Mas naging learning experience siya,” Alegre added. “Nakita namin yung importance ng consistency, discipline, at resilience. Ngayon mas buo ang kumpiyansa ng team at mas driven kami to represent UST.”

Rising Talents and Silent Killers

Alegre is quick to highlight the impact of UST’s rookies, most of whom came from the UST Junior Golden Booters program. Among them, one name stood out: Yuan Maniscan.

“Silent killer yun eh,” Alegre said with a grin. “Dark horse player talaga.”

For him, the mix of veterans and fearless newcomers is what makes this UST side stronger.

“Ang biggest difference ngayong season is yung maturity ng team. Halos lahat sa amin may solid UAAP experience, kaya mas handa kami mentally at emotionally sa pressure. Pero yung mga bata din, hindi natatakot mag-step up.”

Every Game, Every Challenge

Unlike captains who circle certain opponents, Alegre looks forward to every match with equal anticipation. “Excited kami lahat to face every team this season. Alam naming lahat grabe ang paghahanda nila, pero yun din ang dahilan kung bakit kami eager. Every opponent pushes us to bring out the best version of ourselves.”

Playing for Legacy and Family

Representing UST is a responsibility Alegre carries with immense pride. “Every time I wear the badge, ramdam ko yung bigat ng legacy at pressure na kasama nito,” he shared. But this season, his mission is more personal.

“This year, I dedicate every game to my mother who’s currently battling cancer. Her strength and perseverance inspire me every single day. Kaya I step on the field not just for myself, but for her. This season, it’s all for her — and for UST.”

Message to the UST Community

As the Tigers march into UAAP Season 88, Alegre extends his gratitude to the faithful UST community. “Sa lahat ng supporters, alumni, at pamilya ng UST — thank you sa walang sawang suporta. It’s going to be an exciting season, and we promise to give our best on the field. Sama-sama tayo. LALABAN, PARA SA USTe!”

For Sam Alegre, Season 88 is a chance to turn lessons into victories, lead UST beyond the semifinals, and honor both the Tigers’ legacy and his family’s strength. With unity, maturity, and a captain fueled by purpose, UST is ready to roar louder — all for USTe, and for the people who inspire him most.

For more exclusive football stories and updates, click here.