Ateneo: Bundit stays as Lady Eagles coach

MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo de Manila University appeared to have rescinded its earlier decision after its president announced that Anusorn Bundit would still remain as their head coach in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball tournament.

No less than Ateneo president Fr. Jett Villarin made the pronouncement on social media, saying that Bundit will remain with the team as they try to address the troubles hounding their volleyball program.

This statement strongly contradicts the revelations of team manager Tony Boy Liao, who revealed to a couple of sportswriters Sunday night that Bundit was sacked after players raised their grievances over his strict training regimen and their lack of playing time.

RELATED STORY: Revelations emerge after Bundit fired as Lady Eagles coach

Liao said it was athletic director Emmanuel Fernandez who released the verdict that Bundit will no longer be asked to report for training starting Monday.

But Villarin said his termination is not yet final, a decision that came at the heels of a crucial meeting among him, Liao, Fernandez and Ateneo vice president Nemesio Que Monday afternoon.

“I would like to inform everyone that coach is still with the team,” said Villarin in a lengthy Facebook post Monday night.

“In fact, I just had a meeting with coach Tai and our athletics people this morning. And soon, I will be meeting with our players. I must acknowledge though that there are issues within the team, as in all teams, and these will require some time to be resolved.”

Villarin also asked the public to avoid any speculations and spreading false information that will hurt the players as they prepare for the UAAP, which starts around February.

“I also appeal to your better sense to refrain from any speculations or spreading of falsehood that may besmirch the reputation of our fine players, our good coach, or our school,” he said.

“On behalf of Ateneo de Manila, I appeal to your patience and understanding as we try to resolve these internal issues.”

Despite Villarin’s pronouncement, doubts were still cast on the possibility of Bundit returning.

The prolific Thai drillmaster, who guided the Lady Eagles to back-to-back titles and a pair of runner-up finishes in his four-year stint, is said to be hurt with the way things unfolded.

He said he would not hesitate to walk away and return to Bangkok or to his club team in the Premier Volleyball League if the school that brought him to Manila no longer wants him.

“When you don’t want me, I will leave you. Every year before start of training, I told like this (sic), if you remember. I want you to have the discipline and heartstrong.”

Bundit’s possible termination is seen as the last straw as the Lady Eagles enter a new era with Bea de Leon, Jho Maraguinot and Kat Tolentino as cornerstones.

Prior to all these troubles, star playmaker Jia Morado and Gizelle Tan walked away while Michelle Morente moved to rival De La Salle University after failing to meet academic requirements.

Kim Gequillana will also sit out this year after falling prey to anterior cruciate ligament injury.