Photo by Patrick Romero/ The LANCE.
Letran almunus Oliver Almadro said he felt ‘goosebumps’ watching the game between Letran and Ateneo in the Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference, Saturday, at the Filoil Flying V Arena.
Almadro first started his career struggling to make the line-up of Letran Men’s Volleyball Team in the late 90’s. After failing to make it to the roster, he later realized that coaching was his true calling.
The Lady Eagles head coach witnessed as the Lady Knights suffered their first loss against his team in the PVL opener, 16-25, 25-22, 13-25, 20-25.
“Seeing the red and blue, nakaka-goosebumps kasi product ako ng Letran, and I’m really proud of it,” says Almadro.
Despite the win over his alma mater, Almadro commended the team and encouraged them to push harder.
“[They] really worked hard, Ateneo had a hard time beating Letran,” says Almadro.
“Ako nakikita ko sa kanila they really have the skill; talagang experience nalang and they have to push more,” he added.
Meanwhile, Almadro felt nostalgic, sharing his experience back when he was still playing for the Letran volleyball team and expressed gratitude towards his former coaches.
“Hindi naman ako masyado naliline-up nung araw, hindi naman kasi ako ganon kagaling maglaro, but I’m really proud that I’m part of the Letran Sports [program] ,” says Almadro.
“Sila coach Mike [Inoferio] at coach Ronald [Dulay], they are one of the reasons why kung nasaan ako ngayon. I’m really happy to see them sa kabilang side. I’m hoping to see them sa championship one day,” he added.
The UAAP coach is no stranger to championships after a three-peat feat with Ateneo in the men’s volleyball division and is willing to help Letran reach that level.
“I can be an instrument to the Letran community; I will always be there to support Letran and the volleyball team,” says Almadro.
Almadro also shared his excitement towards the upcoming Quadricentennial Celebration.
“I will visit Letran soon, and I hope that I will be part of the big celebration of the Letran community, and I’m proud to be Letranite. Thank you Letran for who I am now,'' he said.