December 15, 2023
by Zeth Angelo Bacaoco
The City Sports Development Division (CSDD) is focusing on community engagement at the barangay level through its Aktibo Dabawenyo program. This initiative, dedicated to nurturing young athletic talent across Davao City, is making a significant impact by identifying and training underprivileged youth, giving them the opportunity to excel in sports.
A Community-Centric Approach
Headed by Mickey Aportadera, the Aktibo Dabawenyo program is a free sports clinic designed to discover and develop young athletes. By collaborating with the City Social Welfare Development Office (CSWDO) and local barangay governments, the CSDD aims to reach out to more underprivileged youth who show potential in sports. This grassroots approach ensures that the program can tap into the hidden talents of Davao’s communities.
“It will run for a year. We will partner with certain barangays that can host the city’s programs, where they will select, through the help of the CSWDO and the barangay captain, out-of-school youths that we can develop with our medalist coaches and trainers who have partnered with the Sports Office,” Aportadera explained.
The program’s goal is clear: to find and nurture young athletes who could one day represent Davao City in regional, national, and even international competitions. By leveraging local resources and expertise, Aktibo Dabawenyo is set to create a sustainable pipeline of athletic talent.
Spotlight on Skateboarding
One of the standout aspects of the Aktibo Dabawenyo program is its skateboard clinic. For this year, skateboarding is among the various sports clinics offered, which also included basketball, volleyball, football, chess, tennis, and badminton. The skateboard program, in particular, has garnered significant attention. With the rise of skateboarding as a mainstream sport, especially following its inclusion in the Olympics, there is a growing interest among the youth. Davao’s skateboarding community is vibrant and growing, and the Aktibo Dabawenyo program aims to harness this energy.
By bringing accomplished Dabawenyo skateboarders on board as coaches, the program not only provides top-tier training but also offers young athletes role models they can look up to. These coaches, many of whom have competed at high levels, are dedicated to giving back to their community and inspiring the next generation of skateboarders.
Additionally, the skateboard clinics offer a safe and structured environment for young skaters to practice and improve their skills. Participants learn not only basic and advanced techniques but also the importance of safety gear and injury prevention. The clinics emphasize creativity and personal expression, core aspects of skateboarding culture, while instilling discipline and perseverance in the young athletes
The program also provides opportunities for participants to showcase their skills in local competitions and exhibitions, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among young skateboarders. This exposure is invaluable, as it helps build their confidence and encourages them to pursue further opportunities in the sport.
Comprehensive Training and Education
The Aktibo Dabawenyo program goes beyond just physical training. It integrates Sports Science education to provide a holistic approach to athlete development. Young participants will learn about the science behind their training, including nutrition, injury prevention, and mental conditioning. This comprehensive approach ensures that they are not only skilled in their sport but also equipped with the knowledge to maintain their health and well-being.
Building a Supportive Sports Ecosystem
Dabawenyo coaches have shown a strong commitment to supporting the training and development of underprivileged young athletes. Their involvement is crucial in building a supportive sports ecosystem within the city. With the right facilities and resources, the CSDD aims to provide an environment where young athletes can thrive.
The program’s long-term vision is to create a sustainable sports culture in Davao City, where talent is continuously nurtured and developed. By focusing on underprivileged youth, Aktibo Dabawenyo is not only promoting sports but also contributing to social development by providing these young individuals with opportunities to excel and improve their lives.
The Aktibo Dabawenyo program provides hope for many young athletes in Davao City. Its comprehensive and community-focused strategy strives to identify and develop the city’s future generation of sports stars. The skateboard clinic, along with other sports programs, represents the program’s commitment to embracing modern sports and providing different options for student participation. With continuous community and local government backing, Aktibo Dabawenyo is positioned to have a long-term impact on Davao’s sports environment.