In Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay, football is more than a pastime—it is a calling, a force that has transformed a small group of friends into a movement. What began in 2016 as simple kickabouts among brothers in spirit has now grown into a proud symbol of discipline, unity, and community pride: the Kabasalan Trojans Football Club.
The Spark that Lit the Fire
The story starts with Angelo Dundee Cainglet, a young man whose love for football was matched only by his desire to give others the same life-changing gift the game gave him. To Angelo, football was never just about scoring goals; it was about scoring second chances—at confidence, at growth, at belonging.
“My passion for football and the impact it’s had on my own life inspired me to give others the same opportunity. I wanted to create a place where players could grow their talents, build confidence, and learn the joy of teamwork.” — Angelo Cainglet
At first, they called themselves the “Kabasalan Bros.” A fitting name for a band of friends bound by sweat, laughter, and shared dreams. But as they grew stronger and more determined, they sought an identity worthy of their spirit. They chose “Trojans”—warriors who embody courage, discipline, and brotherhood both on and off the pitch.
From Pastime to Purpose
The Trojans’ evolution was shaped by the belief of those around them—parents, schools, local leaders, and community members who saw more than just a team forming. A turning point came when Angelo, with encouragement from his father, Hon. George Cainglet, then Mayor of Kabasalan, led structured training at the Municipal Oval.
What started as casual play soon became disciplined preparation. Under the guidance of Club President Francis Randell Trabanca, the Bros transformed into a club with identity, purpose, and pride—the Kabasalan Trojans FC.
The Warrior’s Way
For the Trojans, football training is not simply drills and tactics. It is a philosophy of life:
- Discipline in every session
- Character built through challenges
- Brotherhood that endures beyond the field
Five days a week, from children as young as four to young men ready for higher levels of competition, the Trojans gather—learning not just how to play football, but how to live as warriors who face life with resilience.
The Man Leading the Charge
Head Coach Angelo Cainglet knows what it means to rise through football’s ranks. From his early days at Kabasalan Science and Technology High School to representing Zamboanga Sibugay at Regional Meets, and later starring with Zamboanga Red Corrals FC, Angelo lived the grind and glory of the game.
Now, he pours that experience back into the Trojans, showing every player that the path from local fields to competitive football is possible—with passion, patience, and perseverance.
Football for All
The Trojans stand for inclusivity. They run specialized programs in:
- Girls’ and Women’s Football
- Goalkeeper Development
- Futsal
- School Outreach Clinics
Their doors are always open—whether you’re from the town center or a far-flung barangay, whether you can afford the fees or not. If you have the passion, the Trojans will find a way to give you the field.
Fighting Beyond the Lines
From Dipolog to Davao, Zamboanga to Cagayan de Oro, the Trojans have battled in festivals, cups, and invitational tournaments. Their resume shines with titles like:
- Zamboanga Cup 2016 – Champions
- Dia De Zamboanga 2016 – 1st Runner-Up
- Hon. Dodong Glen 3rd U19 11-aside Football Tournament 2024 – 1st Runner-Up
- Mayor Jarvis Acosta Inter-Sibugay 7-aside (2024) – Champions
- National Women’s Month Futsal (2024) – Champions
But trophies are just milestones. The true victories are the players they’ve produced—like the standouts chosen to represent PaZSS (Pagadian–Zamboanga–Sibugay Selection) in the Philippine Football Federation U19 Division 2, proving that Kabasalan’s dreams can march all the way to the national stage.
Impact on the Community and Youth
The Trojans have given Kabasalan’s youth a positive and structured outlet through football, teaching them the values of discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Beyond football, the club has become a unifying force in the community—bringing together families, schools, and local leaders. The Trojans are not just building athletes; they are shaping role models and future leaders for Kabasalan.
Trojan Community
The success of Trojans would not be possible without the strong support system surrounding it:
- Parents actively encourage their children, providing the backbone of emotional and moral support.
- Schools help by promoting sports and recognizing the achievements of student-athletes.
- The local government, especially under George Cainglet, provided venues and crucial backing that allowed the club to grow from a small group into a respected football team.
This community-driven effort ensures that football in Kabasalan remains inclusive, accessible, and impactful.
One Club, One Love.
At its core, Kabasalan Trojans FC prides itself on a culture of brotherhood, respect, and hard work. From day one, the club has been built on strong bonds between players, coaches, and the community—creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
The atmosphere is friendly yet focused, balancing fun with discipline. Teamwork, open communication, and continuous learning are encouraged so that every member grows not only as an athlete but also as a person. Above all, the Trojans play with passion and pride, carrying the name of Kabasalan wherever they go.
Their unifying words say it best: “One Club, One Love.”
The Road Ahead
The Trojans envision becoming a grassroots powerhouse in Mindanao. Their dream is to build a youth academy, expand tournaments, and provide world-class facilities. But like all dreams, challenges persist: funding, logistics, and resources.
Yet, as true warriors, the Trojans see challenges not as barriers but as battles to be won—with stronger partnerships, committed sponsors, and the unyielding belief that football changes lives.
A Story Etched in Brotherhood
One unforgettable early memory captures their essence: after their very first tournament, the Trojans didn’t win a trophy—but they won something greater. Parents, friends, and neighbors crowded around, applauding not victory, but heart, unity, and brotherhood.
That was the day the Trojans realized: they weren’t just a team anymore. They were a family.
Message to Aspiring Players
The Trojans leave this message for every young footballer in Kabasalan and beyond:
Football is more than a game—it is a journey. Embrace discipline, learn from mistakes, honor your teammates, and always play with heart. With persistence and passion, you can carry your dreams beyond the field and bring pride to your community.
OneFutbol’s Final Word
At OneFutbol, we believe the story of Kabasalan Trojans FC is the lifeblood of Philippine football. This is where the game truly grows—not in stadiums filled with lights, but in towns filled with heart.
The Trojans remind us all: when a community rallies around football, it doesn’t just build players—it builds leaders, role models, and hope for the future.
📩 To support or connect with Kabasalan Trojans FC:
- Facebook: Kabasalan Trojans FC
👉 One Club. One Love. One Future—Together.
