Atoy Co’s future in Mapua remains in the air

Atoy Co’s contract with the Mapua University Cardinals is about to end in a month’s time. If he were asked, the PBA legend – who celebrated his 67th birthday yesterday – does not know what the future will bring.

“I really don’t know yet. I’m expiring this November. I do not know yet.”

After a dismal first two years to start his coaching career in his alma mater, Co was able to end the Cardinals’ four-year Final Four drought in Season 91. With the likes of two-time Most Valuable Player Allwell Oraeme, Josan Nimes, CJ Isit, Joseph Eriobu, and Andrew Estrella, Mapua were able to make the Final Four in back-to-back years.

However, disaster struck Co and the Cardinals.

“Malaking bagay ‘pag nandun si Allwell, nakakakuha siya ng 20 points, 20 rebounds. Hindi rin nakakalusot yung kalaban,” Co lamented.

“Sad to say na inalisan ako.”

It resulted in two forgettable seasons. In Season 93, Mapua ended their run with a 3-15 record. This year, they were able to pick up three more wins.

For Co, he does not want to end things this way.

“Actually, ayoko matapos sa ganito. Nasira yung programa ko nung umalis si Allwell. Ine-expect ko lagi nasa Final Four kami or nasa Finals,” he shared.

However, according to multiple sources, the Cardinals brass are currently in talks with Adamson Soaring Falcons assistant coach Jack Santiago.

And Co is still in the dark with everything happening in the back-end.

“I don’t know yet. Still hanging.”