The University of Perpetual Help Altas Spikers are now even more determined to extend their reign in the NCAA Men’s Volleyball – for two reasons.
First, they are out to honor the late and legendary coach Sammy Acaylar, and secondly, this year will mark the school’s 50th founding anniversary so it is imperative for the team to go for a fifth straight title.
The Altas said Acaylar’s death will only serve as an added fuel to their desire to dominate the tournament that kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 20 at the San Sebastian College Recoletos (SSCR) Gym in Recto, Manila.
Macky Cariño, one of Acaylar’s able lieutenants in the team’s past triumphs, has been tasked to carry the torch for a school eager to show its class on its golden anniversary even without its main man in Louie Ramirez.
“We will try our best to continue the winning tradition of Coach Sammy and we also dedicate our every game to him,” said Carino.
Acaylar passed away last Jan. 30 due to cardiac arrest.
Ramirez has already completed his four playing years in the league, but his absence would not be a reason why they can’t sustain their winning legacy.
For one, the holdovers of the team are all ready, and perhaps very confident to step up to nail the school’s 15th title.
For the uninitiated, Acaylar was the architect of the school’s first 14 championships.
Out to lead Perpetual are team captain KC Andrade, Jefferson Marapoc, Kirth Patrick Rosos, setter Klint Mateo, Kobe Tabuga, John Castil, Dexter Arrozado, John Lituania, James Pascua and Henzron Manaloto.
Also out to make impressions are rookies Kyle Gelogo, Renz Engay, Steff Rosete, Karl Jestre and liberos Annrey Galila and Magrey Abrencillo.
The Altas Spikers will launch their title-retention bid against the San Beda Red Spikers on Saturday, Feb. 22, also at the SSCR Gym.
