What started as a difficult week for veteran coach Roger Gorayeb has ended on a hopeful and inspiring note.
After being relegated as consultant to Capital1 early this week, Gorayeb was also signed by Strong Group Athletics as a lifetime consultant for their girls’ and women’s volleyball programs.
On Thursday, Gorayeb was formally welcomed by Strong Group chairman Frank Lao and volleyball program manager Kiara Cruz.
“Masaya ako kasi mayroon pa palang nagtitiwala sa akin,” Gorayeb shared, his voice tinged with both gratitude and emotion.
“Sobrang sarap sa feeling kasi hindi ako mawawala sa volleyball. Passion ko talaga magturo ng mga bata. Super saya.”
Goyaeb , who made his name by building dynasties with San Sebastian College in the NCAA, will now lend his experience and guidance to Strong Group-supported squads from University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, Saint Benilde, and Letran.
Gorayeb’s résumé is unparalleled: 22 NCAA women’s volleyball titles, 11 championships in the high school division, six in beach volleyball, and the honor of being the first coach to complete a grand slam in the V-League in 2014.
More than the consultancy role, it is Strong Group’s way of honoring the legacy of a man who has devoted his life to the sport.
With his addition, Strong Group Athletics is reinforcing its mission of empowering the next generation of Filipina volleyball stars.
“It’s truly an honor to have Coach Roger Gorayeb guiding our student-athletes from the University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, Saint Benilde, and Letran,” said Strong Group Volleyball head Kiara Cruz.
“His wealth of experience and championship pedigree will be an incredible asset to all our teams, both on and off the court.”
