University of the East Lady Warriors mentor and decorated juniors champion coach Francis Vicente has been named the head coach of the Philippine Women’s Volleyball National Team, while University of Perpetual Help System DALTA volleyball program head Sammy Acaylar was also named the assistant coach earlier today.
According to Larong Volleyball ng Pilipinas Inc. (LVPI) acting President Peter Cayco, there were several candidates considered for the post, but Vicente and Acaylar’s dedication made them stand out.
“Kung tutuusin, may ibang coaches na mas decorated sa kanila kaso sila talaga ‘yung committed para mag-coach,” Cayco said.
Vicente’s last international coaching stint was with the U-19 team that took home fifth place in the Asian U-19 tournament last year. Vicente is best known for having developed current local stars such as Alyssa Valdez, Dindin and Jaja Santiago, and Rhea Dimaculangan during his time as the head coach of the UST Junior Tigresses.
Acaylar, on the other hand, served as head coach of the Senior’s team that won seventh in the 2015 AVC Women’s Seniors’ Championship. The former Cignal HD Spikers mentor has led the Perpetual Help Altas and Lady Altas to eight titles in the NCAA — five in the men’s division, three in the women’s.
When asked when the player selection will begin, Cayco stated that the coaches will select the players after they decide on the full coaching staff.
“So by next week, the coaches will announce the rest of the coaching staff,” added Cayco.
2017 is seen as a pivotal year in Women’s Volleyball, with AVC Seniors’ tournament and the SEA Games on deck.
