The Canadian-Filipino Sports Association of Yukon (CFSAY) began their third season the only way they know how - to go big. The bleachers at Vanier were packed with fans on Saturday evening to cheer on all the teams who would be participating in the year’s games.

The ceremony began with the parade of teams. Showing off their fresh new jerseys, they entered the gym, banner in hand, to a chorus of cheers. The league continues to grow and will have 12 basketball teams and nine volleyball teams competing.

As the 21 teams in their respective sports were lined across the gym it was time for the ceremony to begin. It started with lovely renditions of both the Filipino and Canadian national anthems.

The ceremony proceeded to the award portion of the evening, and with all the teams in their styling new uniforms, it was only fitting for the CFSAY to award a best jersey. For this, they asked me to decide.

For basketball, the Knights of Columbus were chosen for their sleek purple jersey with bold colour accents. The Forever Living Aloe Vera team got the honours of best volleyball uniform for its clean pairing of yellow and black.

CFSAY president Aldrin Manalad said he was ecstatic with the turnout for the opening ceremony, it even had people from Singapore.

“We have people from Singapore joining us for the opening and people from Faro sponsoring another team, thank you so much,” said Manalad.

Manalad said the opening ceremonies were a great way to show the visitors the hospitality of Whitehorse.

Once the honorary tip-off for both basketball and volleyball occurred, there was only one thing left to do, play.

The basketball game was high-energy with the teams getting out on the break and showing off nice passes in the half-court. Every shot attempt drew cheers from the crowd, it was a great atmosphere.

The mixed volleyball teams showed off their offensive and defensive chops. There were quality attacks matched by impressive digs. Being played in the small gym at Vanier, the walls were lined with people who were just as loud as those watching the hoops.

For those who aren’t into basketball or volleyball, the CFSAY is again offering badminton, table tennis and chess. As well, new this year is the introduction of aerobic dance.

As Manalad said, the CFSAY is about bringing the Whitehorse community together.