Oliver Almadro sees bright future for Letran, UP

The opening day of the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena concluded with a thrilling clash between Colegio de San Juan de Letran and the University of the Philippines (UP), both under the guidance of mentor Oliver Almadro. 

The Lady Knights emerged triumphant in a dramatic reverse sweep, marking their first win in the pre-season tournament.

Despite the contrasting outcomes for the two teams, Almadro remained optimistic about the future of both Letran and UP as they gear up for their respective NCAA and UAAP seasons.

“I’m happy na lumalaban at naglalaro sila up to the last point,” said Almadro, who boasts a distinguished V-League career as a triple crown champion and former Ateneo head coach. 

“They are so determined to win and they are really fighting for their goal coming into the season into the UAAP and NCAA.”

Almadro expressed confidence in the rookie-laden UP squad’s potential. 

He believes that the new recruits will develop the character and maturity necessary to compete in the highly competitive UAAP environment. 

The Fighting Maroons, who finished with a disappointing 1-13 win-loss record in Season 86, are under Almadro’s guidance with hopes for significant improvement.

“Yung mga rookies ng UP, kailangan slowly malaman nila na iba talaga yung labanan sa college kaysa sa high school,” the decorated coach explained. 

“It’s about yung pagiging smart, pagiging determined – yung character, kailangan ma-build pa yung strong character ng UP.”

Almadro emphasized that Nina Ytang will play a pivotal role in mentoring the rookies, helping them adapt to the demands of collegiate volleyball.

On the other side, Almadro is equally enthusiastic about the Lady Knights’ prospects. 

He is confident that Letran’s strong character and resilience will drive them forward. Almadro’s faith in his team is rooted in his successful track record, including leading Letran to a silver medal finish in his first season as head coach in NCAA Season 99.

“Maliliit kami sa Letran, but they are really resilient. That’s Letran,” Almadro said. 

“Ang importante ay they are down to earth [and] they want to change the culture talaga for their story to change.”

As the teams continue their pre-season preparations, Almadro’s vision and leadership are set to be instrumental in shaping the future success of both Letran and UP.