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Pro-files: James Reynard Marasigan Arco
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by Rick Olivares, February 02, 2010
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 Name:
James Reynard Marasigan Arco
Year and Course:
MA COMM
How tough is it being a student-athlete? Do your professors cut you some slack?
It is tough! Juggling school work, studying for tests, hanging out with friends and training is not easy and has its toll physically and mentally. Time management, as cliche as it is, is really important so you have time for everything you want to do without compromising other things. One of the things I appreciate with Ateneo, is that we stress how "student" come before "athlete" and we should not compromise our studies with anything else. It is understood by the coaching staff and my teammates that we have to sometimes sacrifice trainings to comply with academic work.
Professors are very understanding when it comes to student-athletes. We are always given the chance to make up work for we have missed, in a class we did not attend because of a game. They are very helpful when we approach them about doing advance work or taking advance tests or asking about future requirements. But of course, no special treatment! :)
As a football player, is it imperative for you to play through pain?
Yes. Yes. Yes. Most of us play through the pain, but we also know our limits when to stop. We would rather miss one training or a game rather than getting a long term injury. Some of us don't know or forget our limits, so we are lucky to have a physical therapist to remind us when to stop. haha. Pain is inevitable in football. If we can play through it and it doesn't endanger us or affect our performance on the field, then we continue playing.
Who are your football idols and fave clubs?
Manchester United of course! haha. My classic favourties are Diego Maradona and Eric Cantona. Then the present faces of football in Lionel Messi and Ronaldo.
What is the most gratifying aspect of being a student-athlete? And as a football player?
Being able to wear an Ateneo jersey. We believe it is an honor and priviledge in being able to represent and play for the school. Knowing that the Atenean community is supporting us in our games is already gratifying in itself.
Playing for the Ateneo Football team is special because we boast of a great football program with great facilities. Not to mention we are the first ever and only 3-peat champions. I believe we are very lucky to be able to carry on the legacy of Ateneo Football.
What is your most memorable (thus far) moment playing for Ateneo and why?
Witnessing the 3-peat championship and being able to reach the finals. Every goal i've scored is also very memorable. Hearing the ball hit the back of the net, the roar of the crowd and the beat of the babble drums is a trip.
What is your favorite Ateneo cheer and why?
All of them! But my favourite part is always "A Song for Mary" at the end of every game, win or loose.
Do you feel football as a varsity sport gets respect in school?
Yes it does! People know it is football season once they see some guys walking around with shaved heads. haha. Ever since I started playing, the football teams seem to be getting more and more supporters.
You're graduating soon. Any idea what you will be doing after graduation?
Hmmm... I guess it's time to go to work. I've already prolonged my student life with my masters and I think my parents have put up with me long enough with me being on allowance. haha. But not with a lengthy vacation with a lot of football. =)
Cheers!
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