Batang Gilas Youth Tryouts Announced for Mindanao in 2026
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) 11 Zone 12 has officially unveiled plans for the Mindanao-wide Batang Gilas Youth Boys tryouts, scheduled to take place on February 14 and 15, 2026, at the Genesis 88 Gym in Davao City. This initiative aims to identify and nurture young basketball talents from across the region, with the ultimate goal of forming a robust national team pool for future international competitions.
Eligibility and Registration Details
During the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Atty. Francis Calatrava, the SBP-11 Zone 12 deputy regional director, provided comprehensive details about the tryouts. He emphasized that the event is open to all boys born between January 1, 2008, and 2011, regardless of their school affiliation, ensuring an inclusive opportunity for young athletes. Calatrava stated, "This is the right time for young athletes to join. Everybody is given the opportunity," highlighting the program's commitment to discovering hidden talents in Mindanao.
Registration for the tryouts is completely free and can be completed either online or on-site. Aspiring participants are required to bring the following documents:
- A copy of their PSA birth certificate
- A valid identification card
- A waiver form signed by a parent or guardian
It is crucial to note that participants without the signed waiver will not be permitted to join the tryouts, underscoring the importance of proper documentation for safety and organizational purposes.
Coaching and Selection Process
The tryouts will be personally led by Gilas Pilipinas Youth coach Juno Sauler, who also serves as an assistant coach for the Magnolia Hotshots and the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers. Sauler, a former collegiate basketball player for De La Salle University in the UAAP, brings extensive experience and expertise to the selection process, ensuring a rigorous and fair evaluation of the young athletes.
Calatrava further elaborated on the criteria for selection, noting that while height can be an advantage in basketball, it is not the sole determinant. He stressed that discipline, skill, and commitment are equally vital in building a competitive national team. This holistic approach aims to cultivate well-rounded players who can excel on the international stage.
Additional Programs and Community Impact
Following the first day of tryouts, a coach's clinic will be conducted to enhance the skills of local coaches, contributing to the overall development of basketball in the region. Calatrava also highlighted the significance of proper officiating, encouraging referees to seek SBP accreditation. He explained that accredited referees gain an edge in tournaments sanctioned by the federation and FIBA, stating, "Officiating is a continuous learning process," which helps improve technical standards across the sport.
In addition to the tryouts, SBP continues to organize free basketball tournaments in Davao City, supported by partner organizations and philanthropists. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to make basketball more accessible to the community, fostering a love for the sport and providing ongoing opportunities for youth engagement and development.
The announcement was made during the DSA Forum at The Annex of SM City Davao, with key figures such as AUX LCDR Marcial Mercado and marketing consultant Malou Pelletier in attendance, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this significant sporting event.
