Ateneo de Davao Grade School Soccer Field: Complete Guide and Facilities Overview

Walking through the gates of Ateneo de Davao Grade School Soccer Field for the first time, I felt that same electric anticipation I get before a big match—the kind of energy Coach Trillo must’ve channeled when he famously said, “We wanted this,” before facing Ginebra in the playoffs. That mindset—knowing the challenge ahead but embracing it anyway—is exactly how you should approach making the most of this versatile facility. Whether you’re a parent planning your kid’s first practice, a coach organizing drills, or just someone scouting a new weekend spot, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from layout to logistics, with a few personal tips I’ve picked up along the way.

Let’s start with the basics: the field itself. It’s a full-sized grass pitch, roughly 100 meters by 64 meters, which is pretty standard but surprisingly well-maintained for a school ground. I’ve played on fields where the grass was patchy or the ground uneven, but here, the turf feels consistently soft underfoot—great for reducing impact during those sudden sprints. One thing I always do before a game is walk the perimeter to check for any hidden dips or sprinkler heads; trust me, it’s saved me from a twisted ankle more than once. The field is marked clearly for soccer, with white lines refreshed regularly, but I’ve seen it used for casual rugby drills or even fitness boot camps. Just keep in mind that if you’re bringing a team, you’ll need to coordinate with the school administration in advance—they’re strict about scheduling to avoid overlaps, and I’ve heard slots fill up fast during peak seasons.

Now, the facilities around the field are where this place really shines. There’s a covered bleacher area that seats about 200 people, which is perfect for parents who want to watch without baking in the sun. I usually grab a spot on the left side because it offers the best view of both goals, but if you’re like me and prefer to be closer to the action, bring a foldable chair—sometimes the benches get crowded during tournaments. Nearby, you’ll find restrooms that are, honestly, cleaner than most public facilities I’ve seen; they’re stocked with basics like soap and paper towels, though I’d still recommend carrying hand sanitizer just in case. Oh, and there’s a water station right by the entrance, but it’s one of those old-fashioned fountains that sometimes acts up—I always pack two bottles of water per person to be safe.

When it comes to equipment, the field has goalposts with nets that are usually in good condition, but I’ve noticed the nets can get loose after heavy rain. A quick tip: if you’re planning a serious match, bring your own set of cones and a portable pump for balls. The surface drains fairly well, but after a downpour—which happens a lot in Davao—the center can get a bit muddy. I remember one weekend game where we had to delay kickoff by 20 minutes because of a puddle near the penalty box; it’s those moments that remind me of Trillo’s attitude: “We’re going to go through Ginebra, anyway, whether it’s now or later.” In other words, expect minor hiccups and adapt—maybe use that time for warm-ups or strategy chats.

Safety is a big deal here, and I appreciate how the school prioritizes it. There’s a first-aid station near the bleachers, staffed during official events, but for casual visits, you’re on your own. I always keep a basic kit in my bag with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and ice packs—because let’s face it, scrapes and sprains are part of the game. The lighting is decent for evening practices, with around 8 tall poles covering the field, but I’d say it’s best to wrap up before 8 PM when the lights automatically dim. Parking can be a hassle if you arrive late; the lot fits about 50 cars, but it’s shared with other school activities, so I try to carpool or bike when possible.

On a personal note, what I love most about the Ateneo de Davao Grade School Soccer Field isn’t just the infrastructure—it’s the community vibe. I’ve met coaches who’ve been training kids here for years, and they’ve shared stories that echo Trillo’s determination. One told me about a youth team that lost four straight games but kept coming back, much like how he acknowledged being “0-4 to Ginebra” yet insisted, “We wanted this.” That resilience is woven into the place, whether it’s in the cheers from the sidelines or the way players help each other up after a fall. If you’re visiting for the first time, take a moment to soak that in; it’s more than just a field—it’s a spot where goals are built, both on and off the pitch.

Wrapping up, the Ateneo de Davao Grade School Soccer Field is a gem for anyone passionate about sports, and with a little preparation, you can make every visit smooth and rewarding. From double-checking the schedule to packing extra supplies, the small efforts add up—just like in those high-stakes games where every pass matters. As Trillo put it, facing challenges head-on is part of the journey, and here, that mindset turns a simple playdate into something memorable. So lace up those cleats, gather your team, and dive in; this field has seen countless dreams take flight, and yours could be next.