 |
| Soon-to-be La Salle coach Aldin Ayo has been given clearance by Letran. Bicol Today (file photo) |
By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA--Letran rector and president Clarence Marquez revealed that the school was saddened by the news that Coach Aldin Ayo, who steered the Knights to their 17th NCAA men's basketball title, will leave the said team and join the De La Salle Green Archers for next year's UAAP season.
In an official statement released on Friday night, Marquez said, "Our triumph is tempered by tears, our joy is mixed with sorrow. Our beloved coach, Aldin Ayo, outstanding Letran alumnus, is bidding us 'farewell', in order to coach for another school, in another league, for reasons most personal and professional."
Despite the sad development, Marquez continued that the school is blessing Ayo's departure.
The rector said in particular, "With hearts heavy but honorable still, we will let him go, wish him all the best, keep his name in holy and grateful memory."
Quoting a verse in the Scriptures, Marquez further said, "We embrace this 'parting of ways' as part of God's thoughts and ways."
The school head then vowed that Letran "will always do what is right, what is good, what is true," implicitly citing another Bible verse.
He continued, "We will be true champions--knights in shining armor--defending our honor, defining this as our moment of glory, promoting the true spirit of amateur sports--our pure 'love for the game', abiding by the rules and ethics of fair competition..."
Marquez's statement concluded, "We call upon the people of God, most especially our fellow institutions of higher learning, in the NCAA and in other leagues, to join us in this journey... Let us launch this crusade of promoting and protecting the best interest of amateur sports. Let us champion this cause, carry it with dignity, dedication, and devotion, play fierce but play fair, run the race, keep the faith, and win that game called life."
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno
.jpg)
