After the rigorous preparation of the athletes of the different State Colleges and Universities in the Region, the long wait finally ruptured to an end as all matches commence today, Nov. 24, setting free the rave spirits of young Ilocano athletes, fountain of sheer talent and determination.

From the different powerhouses of the North, comes with them their respective techniques in hitting the standard which they set forth for themselves, fortifying their strengths and empowering their weaknesses in the process. Thus, this day affords them the opportunity to materialize their intricately planned blueprints towards grabbing the most coveted title.

The MMSU Roosters, the SCUAA Hall of Fame awardee, are expected to show a stunning performance as they defend the championship title which they have held six times in a row.

\"In MMSU, the name of the game is excellence!\" this was stressed by Prof. Arsenio Gallego, director of MMSU Physical Education Sports and Socio-Development Office, stressing the University’s goal to hit the seventh bull’s eye. \"MMSU athletes are much disciplined. It’s their hard work that makes them win.\"

The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) delegation, spearheaded by their charismatic President, Lauro B. Tacbas, attempts to dethrone perennial rival MMSU, arriving here in Batac earliest. UNP landed second place in last year’s SCUAA – I MEET and, with full composure, they will try to turn things around and emerge victorious. The 370 athletes headed by their coaches and staff practiced hard and sacrificed a lot. They are now ready to face their greatest challenge this year – to notch back the most desired title.

\"To challenge MMSU!,\" this has been the ultimate target of Prof. Lito U. Mejia, sports director of Pangasinan State University, third placer in last year’s SCUAA – I Meet.

Fully aware of the defending champion’s strength and tactics, Prof. Mejia recognized the threat from MMSU, \"lalong-lalo na ‘yung Sports Director nila.\" But he added, \"Huwag silang magpakaconfident dahil nandito lang kami.\"

Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) aspires to improve their fourth place standing for this 2009–2010 SCUAA–I Meet. \"Kahit one step higher lang okay na,\" said Prof. Juanito C. Corpuz, sports coordinator.

The 295 delegates of DMMMSU are optimistic to materialize their objective of elevating their ranking by intensively training their athletes with the full support of the administration.

\"Weakness namin last year, eh swimming and softball. Wala kasi kaming entry,\" Corpuz said. With their present athletes, DMMMSU anticipates a better showing this time.

\"We just play to gain more friends, acquire positive values, and play in the spirit of sportsmanship,\" thus spoke Dr. Reynaldo F. Dela Cruz, sports coordinator of underdog Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), perennial bottom placers in the meet.

With high hopes of a better finish, they expect to catch up with, defeat even, other teams. For a team like ISPSC, there is no way but up. (Gretchen Mae Calapit, Nestor Corrales Jr., Via Bulaun, and Jeffrey Balicao)