DLSU’s Circle of Safety: How the Archers Block Outside Noise
Photo source: UAAP Media Team
After the DLSU Green Archers staged an impressive comeback against the UP Fighting Maroons, the noise from outside their circle will only grow louder.
Head coach Topex Robinson reminded his team of the importance of their inner circle: a space designed to drown out external distractions and focus on what truly matters.
“We always start our game with that circle. That’s the circle of safety for us. With that circle, we protect each other,” Robinson explained. “When you are not part of that circle, that means that whatever you say or do will not affect us.”
He continued, “Those are the people that matter to us. Within that circle also are the people [who] came before us. We remind each other about that circle. Keep it tight, and do not let anybody get in that.”
Heading into the decisive game of the UAAP Finals, Robinson stressed how living in the moment helped the team tie the series at 1–1.
“Sabi nga namin, this experience will never happen [again] to you. So, we’re not going to let the worries of the future or the regret of the past stop us from enjoying,” he shared.
He added, “That’s how we’re going to approach the last game on Sunday. We’re just going to enjoy it.”
The energy from both DLSU and UP supporters during Game 2 was electric, with chants that sent chills down everyone’s spines. Robinson acknowledged the excitement heading into Game 3, noting that it’s precisely what they’re playing for.
“Just to enjoy the crowd, they would be crazy. That’s what we’re here for. The reason that you play the finals is with these kinds of moments,” he said.
“We prepare for those moments, and nobody can take that away from us. So we just keep on enjoying,” Robinson added.