In the bustling heart of Davao City, where classrooms echo with ambition and the streets hum with the rhythm of youth, stands a football story that has outlived generations — a story that began on the dusty grounds of F. Torres Street in 1979.

It’s the story of Davao City National High School Football Club — DCNHS FC — a team built on grit, pride, and an undying love for the beautiful game.

For more than four decades, DCNHS FC has been more than just a school team.
It has been a cradle of winners, a classroom of life lessons, and a family that keeps Davao’s football heartbeat alive.

A Legacy Carried Forward

Coach Kinan B. Zafra didn’t build the club — but he carries its legacy like a torch passed down through time.

“DCNHS FC was already here long before me,” he says, his voice equal parts humility and pride. “My role is to continue what was started — to honor the legacy while preparing the next generation for a bigger stage.”

Under his leadership, the club has grown sharper, more disciplined, and more connected than ever. Yet, it remains grounded in the same values that defined its early days: humility, hard work, and brotherhood.

More Than a Name — It’s Identity

Every year, DCNHS FC reinvents itself.
Each batch of players adopts a new name — Selcouth FC, Talaghay FC, Halap FC — unique words that capture the soul of their generation.

It’s a tradition that transforms the club into a living chronicle — a timeline of courage, character, and creativity.

Because here, every player isn’t just wearing a uniform.
They’re carrying a story.

From Dusty Fields to Dreams Abroad

In its early years, DCNHS FC trained without proper boots, cones, or even a dedicated field.
The players shared the old PTA grounds — now People’s Park — with baseball teams, dodging softballs as they honed their passing drills.

But no obstacle could dim their fire.

From that very soil rose players who became coaches, mentors, and community leaders: Herson Salmon, Guillermo Iroy, Francisco Villano, Ronald Galfin, Rondel Garfin, Danny Boy Fernandez, and Coach Jose Te — each one a chapter in the club’s living history.

And then, there was Victorino Troyo — a gifted goalkeeper whose performance once caught the attention of an Argentinian coach who invited him to join Boca Juniors, the legendary club of Diego Maradona.
The dream didn’t materialize due to language barriers, but the story endures — a symbol of how far Davao talent can go when given a chance.

Building the Future — One Player at a Time

Today, DCNHS FC continues to nurture young footballers aged 11 to 16 — molding them not just as athletes, but as students of life.

Training three times a week, the players grind through drills that test both their skills and spirits.

But for Coach Zafra, it’s never just about tactics or technique. It’s about character.

“We uphold the idea of ‘attitude over skills.’ We focus on developing a player’s mindset and skills, finding ways to blend both into the team’s overall style of play.”

This philosophy builds players who are not only skilled but also humble, adaptable, and driven — qualities that define true athletes.

A Home for Everyone

In a world where football programs can be expensive, DCNHS FC remains a sanctuary for all.
No player is turned away. No dream is too small.

“Football clubs in Davao can be expensive,” Coach Zafra explains. “Many young players have the talent, but can’t afford club fees. At DCNHS, as long as they’re enrolled, they can train and represent the school.”

That openness has attracted donors, partners, and tournaments that help sustain the team — allowing more students, regardless of background, to chase their football dreams.

Pride on the Pitch

Over the years, DCNHS FC has represented both school and city in countless competitions — proudly waving the Davao banner at:

• • U14 Davao Strikers Tournament 2025
  • U17 Kadayawan Football Festival 2025
  • U17 Davao Strikers Football Festival 2024
  • U15 SPED Wolves Tournament 2024
  • U17 UP Mindanao 11-A-Side 2023
  • DCAA Meet (2022–2025)

Their consistency paid off with a 2nd Runner-Up finish in the DCAA Meet, a reminder that victory is not measured only by trophies, but by the sweat, sacrifice, and unity that build them.

Footprints Beyond the Campus

The influence of DCNHS FC stretches far beyond its school gates. Former player Herson Salmon once wore the Philippine National Team jersey (1979–1980). Others joined the PFF Youth Team training pool, continuing the legacy of excellence that began decades ago.

The badge they once wore as students continues to shine through every coach, every leader, and every young player they now inspire.

Faith, Brotherhood, and the Future

When Coach Zafra took over in 2022, he wasn’t yet a certified coach — but his players believed in him.

“That trust meant everything,” he recalls. “It reminded me why I’m here — not to chase titles, but to shape hearts.”

That brotherhood remains the club’s secret weapon.

“We treat each other like brothers,” says Coach Zafra. “On and off the pitch, we have each

other’s backs.”

Their rallying cry, “Aim High City!”, echoes the pride of Davao and the spirit of the school that raised them.

Challenges They Embrace

The journey isn’t easy. Players juggle studies and training. Funds are limited. The field is shared with other sports. Yet, none of it slows them down.

“Our goal,” Coach Zafra declares, “is to be recognized as one of Davao City’s most efficient football clubs within three years. We just need continued support from parents, alumni, and the community.”

Because here, every challenge is fuel for belief.

A Message to Every Young Dreamer

Coach Zafra knows what it means to miss chances.

“When I was young, I missed a lot of opportunities because I didn’t have the confidence to join a club. I only played during intramurals and school meets. I started competing seriously at 18 when I joined Oi Rogers FC.

To all young players — grab every opportunity you can. Make the most of every moment. Learn from defeat, stay humble, help others, and love football not just for winning, but for the joy it brings.”

The Next Chapter: DCNHS Halap FC

As the club turns another page, the 2024–2025 team will be known as DCNHS Halap FC — a name that embodies eagerness and faith.

It marks not just a new season, but a renewed promise: That the legacy born in 1979 will continue to live — through every tackle, every goal, and every young dreamer who dares to wear the blue and gold.

Because DCNHS FC is not just a football team.
It is a living legacy of passion, pride, and purpose — a home where character is built, friendships are formed, and dreams take flight.

OneFutbol Message

At OneFutbol, we believe that stories like DCNHS FC are the beating heart of Philippine football — proof that greatness begins in our schools, in our communities, and in every young player who dares to dream.

To support DCNHS FC or be part of their journey, connect through their official Facebook page.

Together, let’s build the next generation of champions from Davao to every corner of the Philippines.