Walking into Toby's Sports Robinsons Tacloban feels like stepping into an athlete's sanctuary. I've been shopping here for over three years, and what keeps me coming back isn't just the impressive selection - it's the philosophy that seems to permeate every aisle. That Filipino basketball quote we often hear, "Naglalaro kami nang maayos, at trabaho naming 'to, parte ng basketball ang matalo" - "We play properly, and this is our job, losing is part of basketball" - perfectly captures the mindset this store cultivates. It's not just about selling equipment; it's about building athletes who understand that proper preparation includes accepting both victory and defeat with grace.
The basketball section alone spans approximately 1,200 square feet, featuring everything from premium Nike jerseys priced at ₱2,800 to local brands like Spalding that offer quality at just ₱1,200. I particularly appreciate their shoe wall - they consistently stock at least 85 different models, including limited editions that you won't find elsewhere in Eastern Visayas. Last month, I counted 42 customers trying on basketball shoes simultaneously during a Saturday peak hour, yet the staff remained remarkably attentive. What stands out is how they arrange equipment by sport philosophy rather than just by brand or price point. The running section, for instance, groups shoes not just by cushioning level but by training philosophy - from beginner 5K programs to marathon preparation.
Their staff training clearly emphasizes that authentic sports culture we discussed earlier. I've witnessed sales associates spending 20-25 minutes with novice basketball players, explaining not just shoe features but proper footwork techniques. During my last visit, a coach was actually conducting an impromptu session on free throw techniques using the store's demo area while his team tried on new uniforms. This creates an environment where shopping becomes part of your athletic development. The tennis section maintains at least 35 racket models strung with different tensions, and they offer free stringing service within 48 hours - a service I've used three times this year alone.
What truly sets Toby's apart is how they've integrated that Filipino sports mentality into retail. The "losing is part of basketball" philosophy manifests in their approach to equipment - they don't just sell you what might help you win, but what will support your journey through both victories and defeats. Their protective gear section includes items like ankle braces and knee supports that acknowledge the physical toll of proper training. I've personally shifted from buying purely performance-focused gear to incorporating more recovery and protection items after conversations with their knowledgeable staff.
The store's layout cleverly guides you through different sporting stages - from beginner essentials to professional equipment. Their swimming section, for example, doesn't just display goggles and swimwear but includes training fins, paddles, and even underwater cameras for technique analysis. I recently purchased a swim tracking device here that helped shave 3.2 seconds off my 100-meter freestyle time. The footwear testing area spans nearly 300 square feet with various surfaces - something I haven't seen in other sports retailers in the region.
After numerous visits and probably spending over ₱25,000 across various sports seasons, I can confidently say Toby's Sports understands that equipment is more than just products - it's an extension of an athlete's commitment to their craft. The next time you're considering new sports gear, approach it with that same mindset the store embodies: that proper preparation with quality equipment isn't just about winning, but about respecting the game enough to properly face both victory and defeat. That's the real value you'll find beyond the price tags at this remarkable sports destination.