IOHSK-a, Ga!

At the recently concluded 12th International Conference on Sports and Exercise Science (ICSES) 2024, our delegates Jerry Yan L. Lucenda and Maui Andre A. Pevida from the College of Teacher Education - Bachelor of Physical Education, University of Mindanao - Main Campus, proudly represented the institution with great excellence at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, under the International Organization for Sports, Health, and Kinesiology (IOHSK), founded by Dr. Hosung So of California State University - San Bernardino. Alongside the University of Mindanao delegates, participants included representatives from Davao Oriental State University, Holy Cross of Calinan, Inc., University of Santo Tomas, and a delegate from Bangladesh.

The conference’s theme, "Challenges in the Sport and Exercise Science Ecosystem in the Modern World: Optimizing Sports Performance and Health Equity," aimed to address the challenges in sports and health, explore contemporary solutions such as technological advances, and foster international collaboration and research among students, professionals, doctors, and scholars globally.

Among the international delegates were representatives from the University of Mindanao - Main Campus, who were awarded the Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie International Scholarship & Travel Grants to present outstanding research critiques through poster presentations. Mr. Lucenda presented his research critique on "A Qualitative Description of Graduate Students' Perceived Decline in Physical Activity from Undergraduate School," while Mr. Pevida shared his critique on "High School Student-Athletes: Their Motivation, Study Habits, Self-Discipline, Academic Support, and Academic Performance." Additionally, Professor Junald Jay Versano, Program Head of the Bachelor of Physical Education, presented his research on "Athlete Motivation and Mental Toughness among Student-Athletes." These presentations highlighted the quality of research and innovation in the field.

Beyond the academic accomplishments, the delegates had the opportunity to explore Thailand. From bustling markets and a lavish cruise experience in the capital to the rich heritage and cultural sites of Ayutthaya, Jerry and Maui noted that the conference was truly unforgettable. Jerry Yan shared, "I couldn't believe, until today, that I was among the scholars chosen to present my expertise in an international venue. Besides the presentation, we gained valuable insights from multiple symposiums, including topics on interventions, programs, and AI." He continued, "To be honest, I thought I would just be a working student with little chance to excel, given the time constraints and responsibilities. But perseverance led me here. I even had the chance to network with notable figures and explore the host country—I can’t wait to share these experiences with my peers and juniors."

Maui’s excitement was evident throughout the event as he reflected, "I am truly grateful to the IOHSK organization for allowing me to be part of this incredible and passionate group. I have gained so many learnings and insights that I hope to share with my fellow UMians and BPE students in the future." He also expressed his appreciation for the cultural trips, saying, "Thailand’s exceptional cultural heritage was surreal to me. I can hardly believe I am witnessing it in person after a decade of dreaming to travel abroad. As a first-time international traveler, this journey will always remain one of my core memories."

The University of Mindanao extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Hosung So, founder of IOHSK, and the esteemed individuals Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie, Mrs. Randi McKenzie, Dr. Cuauhtémoc Carboni, Dr. Hans van der Mars, Dr. Henry Yu, and the IOHSK board of directors for supporting aspiring scholars in the fields of Sports, Exercise Science, Health, and Kinesiology.

This initiative continues to inspire scholars to pursue excellence and provides holistic opportunities to showcase their capabilities in the field. The University of Mindanao deeply appreciates the organization's generosity and dedication.