2025-11-15 09:00
Walking through the gates of the DLSU Razon Sports Complex for the first time, I was struck by how much more it was than just a collection of buildings and fields. It felt like the university's athletic heartbeat—a place where discipline meets passion, and where you can practically smell the ambition in the air. I’ve spent considerable time here, both as a former student and now as a regular visitor, and what continues to amaze me is how the complex balances elite-level training with everyday student life. It’s not just a venue; it’s an ecosystem. The facilities are impressive, sure, but it’s the energy—the palpable tension during competitions, the camaraderie in the stands—that truly defines the place.
Let’s talk about the facilities, because honestly, they’re a cut above what you’d typically find in other universities. The complex houses an Olympic-sized swimming pool that’s maintained at a consistent 27 degrees Celsius, a fully-equipped gym with around 50 cardio and weight stations, and multiple courts for basketball, volleyball, and badminton. I’ve always been partial to the track oval, though. There’s something about its Mondo surface—the same type used in international competitions—that makes you want to push a little harder, run a little faster. I’ve lost count of the mornings I’ve spent there, watching the sun come up while student-athletes grind through their drills. And let’s not forget the seating capacity: the main arena alone can host up to 4,000 spectators, which, during UAAP season, is almost always filled to the brim.
Speaking of UAAP, that’s where the magic really happens. If you’ve ever been to a game here, you know exactly what I mean. The atmosphere is electric, especially when La Salle teams are in contention. I still remember last season’s basketball finals—the crowd roaring, the green banners waving, the sheer intensity on the court. Those in bold indicate that the team is either into the finals or still in contention for a finals berth, and let me tell you, seeing your school’s name highlighted like that does something to you. It’s a point of pride, a collective rallying cry. Over the years, I’ve noticed that the complex isn’t just a backdrop for these events; it actively shapes them. The design, the acoustics, even the lighting—everything is optimized to elevate the athlete’s performance and the spectator’s experience.
But it’s not all about high-stakes competitions. What I love most about Razon is how accessible it is. On any given afternoon, you’ll see students playing pickup games, friends swimming laps together, or even staff members taking a yoga class. The complex runs over 15 regular fitness programs, from spin classes to martial arts, and I’ve personally tried at least half of them. The archery range, for instance, is a hidden gem—it’s where I learned to shoot, and now it’s my go-to stress reliever during busy weeks. It’s this blend of competitive and recreational use that makes the space so vibrant. You don’t have to be an athlete to feel at home here; you just need a willingness to move.
Of course, maintaining a facility of this scale is no small feat. I once chatted with one of the staff members, who mentioned that the complex goes through roughly 5,000 liters of pool chlorine and replaces around 200 basketballs per year. Those numbers might seem random, but they hint at the behind-the-scenes effort required to keep everything running smoothly. And it’s worth it. The complex has hosted at least three major international sporting events in the past five years, putting DLSU on the map not just academically, but athletically too.
As I wrap up, I keep thinking about how the Razon Sports Complex embodies the spirit of La Salle—dynamic, inclusive, and relentlessly striving for excellence. Whether you’re here to cheer on a championship-bound team or just to unwind after classes, it’s a space that invites you to be part of something bigger. In my opinion, it’s one of the best things about being in this university. So next time you’re on campus, drop by. Maybe I’ll see you at the track.
