New book tackles the Ateneo-Lasalle Rivalry: How did it all begine?

The UAAP season is reaching its climax again with the teams of Ateneo, DelaSalle, NU and FEU in the final lineup. UAAP fans are awaiting with bated breath for the final toss up: is it going to be an Ateneo-La Salle match in the finish?

Ever since the start of the University Athletic Association in the Philippines in 1938, Ateneo and La Salle games have drawn the most ardent and passionate crowds. Ticket sales for these sports matches have virtually subsidized the whole season. The rivalry at the games has extended into many other competitions and has at times intensified into ugly verbal and physical tussles between students. This has led many to ask: Is basketball the be-all and end-all of the rivalry between schools?

This question is what columnist, TV host and author RJ Ledesma tackles extensively with his trademark humor and ironic wit in his latest book entitled BLUE BABBLE, GANG GREEN the Ateneo-La Salle Rivalry. In his essays, RJ looks at the different angles and possible reasons for the intense competition between the two schools. In his research RJ refers to an article written in the 90's about a controversy that erupted n the late 19th century America between the two largest teaching controversy apparently extended beyond the Atlantic Ocean into Philippines shares and into the campuses of the Ateneo de Manila and Dela Salle University.

Of this controversy, RJ writes that "It was a rivalry that got downright Latin" and compares it with the rivalries between the Spartans versus the Persians. Toyota versus Crispa and Noranians versus Vilmanians.." Nevertheless, Christian values will prevail at the end. After each game and victory, the winners and losers are reminded that to be a La Sallian, one must be open to the needs of others and to be an Atenean, one must be a man for others. In his conclusion he writes, "Ateneo and La Salle have both enriched me as a person. And we continue to seek God in all this. God's presence is wherever we are, whomever we are with. Whether they be Blue or Green."