The Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) is eyeing to elevate collegiate sports to global standards.

This, after the PRISAA National Board of Trustees agreed to adopt the theme “Sustaining the country’s inclusive grassroots sports program as a pathway to the Olympics” in a 12-year plan, according to a Tuesday news release.

Instead of just organizing an annual national competition, the PRISAA said it will be the lead implementor of the national grassroots initiative in close collaboration with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) with the primary focus on developing Olympians.

The pledge of commitment to shift direction and thrust was signed by 17 regional presidents during the PRISAA National Strategic Conference held last Oct. 12 in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan province.

“We are dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering excellence, and creating pathways for our student-athletes to not only excel locally but to reach the highest levels of competition, including as future Olympians,” the pledge stated.

“Together, we will work with integrity, passion and determination to ensure that PRISAA will play a vital role in shaping the future of sports in the Philippines and preparing our athletes for global success.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Edward Hayco, credited for Cebu City’s successful grassroots program, also attended the meeting.

Meanwhile, PRISAA National Executive Director Elbert Atilano has called for a General Assembly meeting to be attended by the 17 regional executive directors on Nov. 9-10 in Zamboanga City.

A general assembly of the 400 athletic directors or sports leaders from the 400 member-schools to firm up the mission-vision of producing Olympians for the country which was formulated during the strategic planning is also scheduled in January next year. (PNA)