UP alumni pushing for Lipa’s former players

By Jasmine W. Payo
Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines–A DAY after the University of the Philippines gave coach Joe Lipa the pink slip, alumni groups were pushing for two of the temperamental coach’s former wards, Eric Altamirano and Ronnie Magsanoc, to take his place.

School officials said they will name the coach early to give him time to prepare for the next UAAP season, which coincides with UP’s centennial celebration, but have yet to begin their search for Lipa’s replacement.

“I recommended for [Lipa's early] termination because of the centennial year,” said Hercules Callanta, dean of the College of Human Kinetics, who wants the team to be competitive in the 2008 season. “The next coach will be hard pressed for a result. We want [the new coach] to have the luxury of time.”

The school, though, is still awaiting word from UP chancellor Sergio Cao regarding the status of Lipa.

Although Callanta recommended that Lipa be replaced after a winless season, the decision will only be final once it is ratified by Cao.

“Although the recommendation is already a big step, it still has to be ratified,” said a school source.

“The chancellor should have an action based on his own decision,” said Callanta. “We just have to wait for his action.”

Callanta said the school doesn’t have a list of candidates yet, although several names have already floated.

“We haven’t started anything,” said Callanta. “No one is being eyed, no one is being sought after. All are speculations.”

But alumni groups are pressing for Magsanoc and Altamirano, both members of Lipa’s 1986 championship squad, the only UP team to win a UAAP title.

The name of Allan Gregorio was also floated but the Air21 assistant mentor respectfully asked that he be taken off whatever list because he is eyeing a PBL stint.

The Maroons wrapped up the elimination round with a 0-14 record marked by horrendous blowout losses.

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