The holiday season has been an emotional one for coach Ariel Vanguardia
After an huge come-from-behind win against the Meralco Bolts four days before Christmas, first year Phoenix Fuel Masters head coach Ariel Vanguardia received a devastating news last Monday. His mentor and the man who introduced him to the world of coaching Adriano “Bong” Go passed away Monday after succumbing to a stroke.
“It’s been an emotional week, lost my mentor coach Bong,” said Vanguardia as he tried to fight off tears.
Back in 1998, Vanguardia, who was 25 years old back then, was tapped by Go to be an assistant coach during his time with the College of Saint Benilde Blazers. And he would not have been in this position if it were not for his mentor.
“I was a walk-in as an assistant coach, I had no experience back then,” Vanguardia reflected.
“I owe everything to him.”
Even during his stint with former ABL champions Kuala Lumpur Dragons, he always kept contact with Go, seeking for advice about coaching and life.
“He always gave me advice, he’s just a selfless person,” he furthered.
And after Phoenix’s huge come-from-behind win against the Globalport Batang Pier, coach AV could not help but reflect on the passing of his mentor — dedicating the win to his mentor.
“Even coach Yeng [Guiao], Norman [Black], Louie [Alas], Bill Bayno will speak a lot about coach Bong.
“He’s really a father figure to me and I dedicate this win to him.”
And coach Vanguardia knows that his mentor is smiling up in heaven knowing that his pupil is on the right track.
