Continue to ‘Shoot’

CEBU, Philippines — Cebuano basketball coach Albert Mariter Alocillo admitted that he had mixed feelings when the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) cancelled its entire 2020 season two months ago due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He felt sad deep inside because before the virus outbreak, Alocillo really looked forward to the new chapter of his career as head coach of the Don Bosco Technical College, Inc. Greywolves with zest and enthusiasm.

But on the other end, he’s happy knowing that CESAFI’s decision is for the safety and welfare of all given the clear and present danger that Covid-19 brings.

“I’m sad, and happy at the same time. I honor and trust the board’s decision as it brings welfare to everyone,” said Alocillo, who was once the chief strategist of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers before making his move to Don Bosco.

As a devoted coach both in sports and in life, the Alegria-native Alocillo looks at the crisis as the real game of life wherein one must respond to the crucial situation with fortitude and high sense of optimism.

“Whatever values we learn in this arena of competition, how we respond to this pandemic, this is now the actual game application. The real game of life,” said the soft-spoken bench tactician.

“Have faith and be positive. There is always a sunshine after the rain, a calm after the storm. It is impossible to please God without faith. Thy will be done,” he added.

With strict quarantine measures staying in place and sports-related activities still not allowed by the government, Alocillo regularly keeps in touch with his players through online platforms.

But last week, Alocillo had to let go of his two prized wards in Vincent Raymund “Soysoy” Escobido and Nichole Jay Cabanero, who decided to leave Don Bosco to try their luck with the University of Sto. Tomas (UST) Tiger Cubs in the UAAP.

The good thing is that they parted ways in a beautiful manner.

“They asked permission from me (Escobido and Cabanero) especially the parents,” shared Alocillo. “Before they make a decision, we even prayed for God’s guidance and approval.”

Alocillo said Escobido and Cabanero must make the most out of the opportunity that comes their way.

“It’s a lifetime opportunity to be part of a prestigious league. The players will learn the values of sportsmanship, self worth, submission to authority, teamwork, hard work, preparation and determination,” said Alocillo. “They will also learn how to overcome defeat and how to handle success, preparing them to be a good leader in the society and in their family.”

And Alocillo’s words of wisdom to his departing players who will seek greener pastures in the Big City when the situation gets back to normal someday - continue to SHOOT.

“My advice for them is to just remember the acronym of SHOOT. It means, S-eek God first, H-umble yourself upon the Lord, O-bserve His laws, O-overcome the pattern of this world, T-rust the impossible to possible,” said Alocillo. “That is how our God coaches us to be successful in life, and in everything that we do.”