By: Joaquin Cortez
From the streets of Naga City to the roar of the UAAP pool, TJ Amaro’s journey to Ateneo was far from a straight path.
Fresh off a stellar rookie season that crowned him Season 88 Rookie of the Year and helped the Blue Eagles claim their 10th consecutive men’s title, Amaro reflected on the tough decisions that almost kept him from donning the Ateneo trunks.
Leaving San Beda University and his hometown behind, the 18-year-old Bikolano admitted he wasn’t initially fully committed to Ateneo after graduating from senior high school last May.
“It was not an easy decision for me,” he said, recalling the uncertainty that marked his transfer.
“When I transferred to Manila, ‘yong San Beda na ‘yong kumuha sa akin. ‘Nung January kasi, nag-ACET lang ako para lang may choices ako. I wasn’t really committed sa Ateneo and I was deciding whether I’m gonna stay in San Beda or go to Ateneo. And then, ‘nung March or April, that’s when I decided na ‘okay, I’ll go to Ateneo.’”
Seeking guidance from his parents and counselors, Amaro navigated the tough choice.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“I talked to my parents and some guidance counselors about my decision. I was really in between either sa pag-stay or pag-alis. So, I really had to seek advice siguro sa professional na.”
Looking back, he knows he made the right move.
“Super important yung naging help ng guidance ng parents ko and ng family ko. Every decision is really made by me, pero they’re always there supporting. Always supporting kung ano ‘yong magiging decision ko, and they’re also there to help me,” he said.
Amaro’s gamble paid off: not only did he help Ateneo secure its 10th straight UAAP title, but he also collected three golds and two silver medals under head coach Archie Lim.
And while his rookie year came with its fair share of growing pains, Amaro is ready for more.
“It’s a very different atmosphere so I had to adjust,” Amaro admitted.
“There were mistakes pero I take full responsibility na sabi ko na I’ll be back for more next year.”
