Hopes are high for University of Perpetual Help System Dalta with the arrival of new coach Olsen Racela.
Bringing his experience in turning a rebuilding college team into a legitimate contender, Racela’s system could be what the Altas are looking for to turn their fortunes around in the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
Racela announced he already agreed in principle to take the coaching reins from Myk Saguiguit, who stepped aside as an assistant coach.
Former Perpetual star and now Barangay Ginebra San Miguel guard Scottie Thompson had a hand in bringing Racela to the squad, which finished fifth in NCAA Season 99.
“The management told me to convince coach Olsen since we’re both from Ginebra,” Thompson, who also serves as Perpetual team manager, said.
Thompson is the most decorated alum of the Altas although he failed to give it a championship during his tenure.
“We’re here to help out and do what is best for Perpetual. The results won’t come right away but we will stick to the process for Perpetual,” Thompson added.
Racela replaced his brother Nash as coach of Far Eastern University in 2016 and steered the Tamaraws to four straight Final Four stints in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
“We’re happy he’s on board and we’re happy coach Myk is still part of the team,” Thompson said.
“I know the boys loved Coach Myk but we talked about the situation and in the end, we both want what’s good for Perpetual. We’re here to help out as alumni.”
With Racela and Thompson’s involvement with Perpetual, sideliners believe San Miguel Corporation will be the Altas’ new backer.
But Thompson said only he and Racela will be helping out Perpetual.
“Coach O (Racela) will be taking the job and SMC won’t be involved,” Thompson said.
Racela is set to debut in Season 100 next year but has yet to name the rest of his coaching staff.
