By MARK REY MONTEJO
Shaq Delos Santos will return at the helm of the University of Santo Tomas women’s volleyball program after replacing Kungfu Reyes for the head coaching position, the school announced Tuesday, June 3.
Delos Santos, who guided the Rhea Dimaculangan and Aiza Maizo-Pontillas-led Tigresses to their 16th overall title in 2010, will take charge anew for UST this coming Season 88 where they try to bounce back from their semifinal setback in Season 87.
Reyes, on the other hand, will be named as a Program Director for UST’s women’s and girl volleyball squads, while being a chief tactician of the Junior Golden Tigresses in the highschool division.
From 2004, Reyes essayed a decorated stint in the juniors program where it helped UST win four more titles before moving in the seniors division in 2015, succeeding Odjie Mamon.
Prior to his appointment, Delos Santos, who was a former mentor of the national team, served as part of Reyes’ coaching staff for the past two editions where the España-based squad had one runner-up finish.
He is also currently guiding the Cignal HD Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
“Let’s continue to support the Women’s Volleyball Team as they prepare for UAAP Season 88, which UST will host,” UST- Institute of Physical Education and Athletics wrote on its social media post.
Last season, the Golden Tigresses fell short for a playoff bonus but managed to seal the third spot with a 9-5 slate before succumbing to the twice-to-beat holders De La Salle Lady Spikers in the semis.
Next year, Delos Santos is anticipated to bank on UST veterans in Detdet Pepito, Cassie Carballo, Jonna Perdido, Angge Poyos, and Reg Jurado as they aim to bring back their long-lost glory on the distaff side.
