For a relative newcomer to the sport, Alberto (Bert) Montilla (second from left) is passionate about his footy and representing his country at the Asian Champs in Chon Buri.
How did you first start playing AFL?
I started playing last year when one of my friends from rugby, Ram, got some guys from our team to try it out together. Our friends JP and Rey Marc were already in the Eagles squad and told us it was a lot of fun, and we should give it a try.
My friends and I have been playing AFL since last year and some of us have started coaching at local Auskick sessions.
What does it mean to represent your country at the Asian Champs?
I’m proud and excited to represent my country with my brothers. I want to represent my country well and win for my flag and my fellow Filipinos.
Which team are you most excited about playing against at the Champs?
Definitely most excited to play against China.
Bert and his brothers have their eyes firmly on the prize in Chon Buri.
How much are you training in the lead-up to Champs?
We train with the team once a week and I play rugby as well to keep the fitness, competitiveness and physicality up.
Who are some players from your team in good form recently?
The Ramirez brothers, Jay R and Lito, are well known in the local rugby scene. They’re great players and great guys and I’m excited to see them bring their signature flair to the Asian Champs.
Our other new local recruits Madz, Chicco, Kenneth and Dylan are going to bring the intensity and their own individual styles to the squad.
Rounding out the rest of the local Pinoys are JD, Ram, Sway and myself. We all played in the Champs for the first time last year and we’re all dead set on testing ourselves and showing how much we improved.
What is your position or role in the team?
I usually play in defence, communicating to the back six and making intercepts. I’m always game to ball out anywhere I’m needed on the field though.
What do you like most about playing footy?
I love the fast, free flow of the game. I love the athleticism, physicality and the skills involved.
Bert and his Eagles team mates are ‘dead set’ on showing how much they’ve improved at the 2025 Champs.
What is your most exciting moment in a footy match so far?
Recently we had a practice game where I kicked a goal and that felt great since I’m usually parked back in defence. Usually I like making big tackles and marks near our goal and shutting down attacks.
Is AFL a growing sport in The Philippines?
It has a small but passionate following. We’re growing more and more every year and I think if more Filipinos discover the sport and try it, they’ll love it. Hopefully we can have more international competitions so guys like Jonel, Jem and our new recruits who didn’t make it to this year’s Champs can get out there and play too.
