Janji and Julianito
Cebu's Tennis Kings in the Making

THIRTEEN-year-old Janji Soquino and 12-year-old Julianito Jopia may not be as popular as Christian "Babaw" Tiongko or Berry Sepulveda, but these two youngsters are kings in their respective divisions.

Soquino, who is studying at the University of Cebu, assumed the No. 1 ranking in the boys 14-and-under last January, while Danao's pride Jopia claimed the country's top spot in the 12-and-under class.

Hardworking, dedicated and daring are just some of the adjectives that describe the two.

Julianito is a third honors student of the Danao City Central School while Janji, fondly called the Michael Chang Jr., has graduated from the elementary with flying colors. Janji practices at the Cebu Country Club while Julianito spends two hours at the courts with his father coaching him.

On weekends, both join the Cebu Training pool members at the San Carlos Seminary Tennis Club for the weekend training under the supervision of Sayas Cinco and Christopher Miņosa.

The two youngsters should count their blessings. They both get support from their parents and teachers.

Janji recalled how his teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Pablo Cumbate, encouraged him to do his best while Julianito was given all the chances to compete in out-of-town contests.

Sponsors also play a major role in their quest for honors.
Janji is supported by Fila through Benji Acol and regional manager Rowena Pido, Mario King of Nito's Auto Supply while the University of Cebu foots the bill for his travel expenses.

Julianito, on the other hand, will be sponsored by Adidas in June next year.

For the meantime, Adidas provides him with shoes, shirts, shorts, caps, and socks everytime he competes.

Both athletes dream of becoming members of the national team and hope to become the country's next tennis stars.

Caecent No-ot with Marsante Alison
November 3, 1999