The relationship between Goldwin Monteverde and Carl Tamayo is more than just a coach-player partnership.
The dynamic between the two is as a father and son.
Tamayo grew up without a father, as his dad passed away days after he was born.
Then fate brought them together.
Monteverde took a chance on Tamayo – who was then a volleyball player at Southwestern University – and brought him to Manila to study at Adamson University.
The Monteverde household took Tamayo in and the latter has since lived with them – even spending either Christmas or New Year there.
But on Monday, Tamayo, now 21 years old, decided on turning pro. But it won’t be here in the Philippines, as he will head to Okinawa to play for Ryukyu.
As a father, Monteverde is supporting the decision of his son.
“Carl has been part of our lives since he was 13. And I can say he is really selfless, always putting the team before himself, showing great character both on and off the court,” read his heartfelt Facebook post.
“I am always amazed at his incredible determination, passion, and his desire to always be the best version of himself for the team.”
On the court, the two have gone through so many battles together.
Back in UAAP Season 78, Monteverde’s Adamson squad figured in a controversy that saw them forfeit all but one of their games.
Still, Tamayo stuck with Monteverde as they moved to Nazareth School of National University.
Together, they were able to conquer the high school scene, even toppling Kai Sotto’s Ateneo High School.
And when Monteverde left National University to go to University of the Philippines, Tamayo followed him there.
“We will definitely miss him during practices and games. I will miss his company because more than just my player, Carl is family,” expressed Monteverde, who even lends the family car to Tamayo when he needs a ride.
“I am honored to be his coach for many years.”
The on-court partnership between the two though did not have a fairy tale ending. UP bowed to Ateneo in Game 3 of Season 85.
But the loss does not define what Tamayo brought to UP.
Behind Tamayo, UP was able to end a 36-year title drought last May. Moreover, he was the Rookie of the Year in Season 84 and a two-time Mythical team member.
“We thank Carl for being part of our historic journey as champions of Season 84 and runner-up of Season 85,” said Monteverde.
“His departure from the UP Fighting Maroons may not have been the ending we had all imagined, but his contributions here will definitely be remembered.”
Now that Tamayo is headed to a foreign land, he will still have his dad by his side.
After all, family never leaves family behind.
“While this move somehow saddens me, I trust his decision and I will always stand by him with 100-percent support. “
