Long ago, in a galaxy far far away, the Filipino American Student Association (FASA) traveled great lengths from the University of Arizona to Fullerton, Calif. on Friday, Oct. 21, 2011. Their mission: to spread S.P.U.F., or spirit, pride, unity, and fun, to all other Jedi at the 26th annual Friendship Games.
           What is Friendship Games you ask? Simply put, it is a weekend celebration, hosted by California State University at Fullerton, in which numerous Filipino clubs from across the country can come together and compete in various games that require great skill, perseverance, and teamwork. While competing together in competitive spirit, students are able to bond and connect with those from other schools and form new friendships.
           As tradition goes, each club is required to select a theme to represent their school through any creative way they can think of. This year, FASA felt it was only necessary that they choose Star Wars as the theme to best represent the UA. “It seemed like a good theme that the whole club would know and like,” said FASA Friendship Games chair, Kristina Valbuena. “As it turned out, the club seemed supportive of the theme, causing a better sense of unity among members.”
           For weeks, both members and students on the FASA executive board have been working diligently to prepare for one of the most important events of the year for the club. From shopping for Star Wars swag to make their costumes to practicing for the various games, members have put their whole hearts into making this event special. “I found myself enjoying the time I spent going to FASA meetings, shopping for light sabers, and practicing with my friends for the games,” said Andy Liu.
           After weeks of preparation, FASA finally arrived with light sabers in their hands and pride in their hearts. Each member that competed in the games did their best to win and was fully supported by everyone. As the day progressed, FASA members continued to compete for first place in every game while also meeting and forging new friendships with students from all over.
“Aside from doing well in the games, there is more to Friendship Games than just winning,” said Chine Myers, president of FASA. “A greater part of attending Friendship Games is for members to not only bond with each other, but to bond with other students from other schools. “
According to Myers, Friendship Games is also a great way for incoming freshman to find their place at the UA by discovering a sense of community within FASA. “Since Friendship Games is one of the biggest events of the year it has definitely brought me closer to everyone in such a way that does not just make us a team, but a family,” said Cody Vito. “Attending Friendship Games and being a part of FASA has made my experiences as a freshman 10 times more enjoyable and allowed me to adjust and be less homesick.”
Overall, this annual FASA event is an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone. Being constantly on the go, this event ceases to keep its participants from ever feeling bored. “Friendships Games was exhausting and fun,” said Steve Sison. “It was worth losing sleep to see everyone be involved by coming together to celebrate Filipino culture as well as their own uniqueness.
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