A new dawn is rising for the struggling University of the East boys basketball program.
Former La Salle Green Hills head coach Karl Santos has signed on to be the head coach of the Junior Warriors.
Along with Santos, helping boost the program is decorated sports patron Frank Lao as his son Jared Lao will serve as the team manager of the team.
This will mark Santos’ return to the high school scene after serving as assistant to the Greenies last decade.
“Of course, I’m very happy. The high school level is crucial for building a strong foundation with these boys. Guiding and mentoring them is something I truly enjoy,” said the youthful head coach, who steered the Greenies to a Final Four finish in NCAA Season 95.
“My number one priority is helping them achieve their dreams, but it also involves teaching them how to balance studies and basketball.”
Santos replaces Ronnie Dojillo as head coach of the team.
UE’s boys’ basketball has long been struggling, missing the Final Four for the last 21 years.
Since becoming champions in UAAP Season 64, the Junior Warriors program floundered as wins could not come by.
Since UAAP Season 65, the best finish of the team was a 6-8 finish in Season 70.
Last season, UE finished in sixth place with a 3-11 slate.
“Our first goal is to change the environment.
“We need to learn how to compete and set high standards for these guys because we want to establish the tone and demonstrate that, although we are a new team, we are still aiming for the championship,” said Santos, who is also an assistant coach in PBA team Converge.
Santos has already began work last week, scouting the best available talents in Cebu.
And come Season 86 – the hosting year of UE, Santos vows that a different Junior Warriors team will fight for the school.
“I am extremely grateful. Firstly, I enjoy teaching and helping young boys who aspire to play at higher levels. Secondly, I relish the competition. In the UAAP, we are competing against the best of the best, and I welcome that challenge,” Santos went on.
Lastly, I am thankful that UE chose us to coach the junior’s team, and I am very appreciative of the Lao Family for their support during our time here at UE.”
