COMMUNITY | Filipina athletes highlight discipline, resilience under pressure
The athletes’ experiences reflect a broader focus on long-term development and support systems in Philippine sports, including initiatives under Smart Sports.
Three Filipina athletes backed by Smart Communications Inc. shared how discipline and mental resilience shape performance in high-level competition as part of activities marking Women’s Month.
Professional golfer Sam Bruce, badminton player Mika De Guzman and volleyball standout Shaina Nitura described how preparation, consistency and composure play key roles in competition.
De Guzman, a Southeast Asian Games bronze medalist and three-time UAAP MVP, said success in badminton depends on both physical and mental endurance.
“A lot of people think badminton is an easy sport,” she said. “But honestly, I don’t think they see how much physically demanding it is and how mentally challenging badminton is.”
She emphasized consistency during high-pressure moments. “People expect the physical side, but they don’t always see how composed and steady I stay when there’s high pressure,” she said.
Bruce, who competes in international golf tours, said managing pressure requires focus on routine and recovery from setbacks.
“With my game, it’s like—if something doesn’t go my way, it’s okay,” she said. “What can I do to move forward?”
She added that recognizing and releasing pressure is essential in long-format competitions. “The only thing I can control is my routine,” she said.
Nitura, a UAAP rookie of the year for volleyball, said resilience is developed by adapting to challenges during matches.
“I really believe na ang pinakamahirap mong kalaban is yourself,” she said. “How do I respond sa mga situation na hindi na maganda?”
She said resetting mentally is key during games. “I pray and I leave everything to God … then play again,” she added.
The athletes’ experiences reflect a broader focus on long-term development and support systems in Philippine sports, including initiatives under Smart Sports.
“Supporting athletes like Sam, Mika and Shaina is about more than winning medals,” said Jude Turcuato, head of Smart Sports. “It’s about building an environment where Filipina athletes can train, compete and grow with confidence.”
The athletes also encouraged younger Filipinas to pursue their goals, emphasizing persistence, discipline and consistency as key factors in success.
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