I still remember the first time I saw Angel Canino play—it was during a high school tournament in Manila, and even then, there was something electric about her presence on the field. Fast forward to UAAP Season 87, and there I was, among 15,192 roaring fans at the Big Dome, watching her dominate the women’s volleyball finals. That moment solidified something for me: talent like hers doesn’t just appear overnight. It’s nurtured, guided, and inspired—often by leaders who see potential long before the rest of the world does. And that’s exactly the kind of leadership I aim to bring to the Ambrose University College Women’s Soccer Team.
When I took over as head coach last year, I knew we weren’t just building a team; we were building a legacy. My philosophy has always been rooted in spotting raw talent and shaping it into something extraordinary. Watching Canino evolve from a high school standout to a La Sallian star reminded me why I fell in love with coaching in the first place. It’s not just about drills and tactics—it’s about seeing the fire in a player’s eyes and knowing how to fuel it. At Ambrose, we’ve embraced this approach wholeheartedly. Our training sessions aren’t just repetitive exercises; they’re opportunities to unlock potential. We focus on individual strengths while fostering a collective spirit, something I believe sets us apart from more rigid programs.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that numbers don’t lie, but they don’t always tell the whole story either. Take our recent season, for example. We finished with a 12-3 record, which looks impressive on paper, but what those stats don’t show is the grit behind each win. Like our comeback victory against rivals from Carlton University, where we overturned a 2-0 deficit in the final twenty minutes. That wasn’t just skill—it was heart. And heart is something you can’t quantify. I’ve made it a point to instill this mindset in our players: embrace the pressure, thrive in the chaos, and never underestimate the power of resilience. It’s a lesson I picked up not just from my own experiences, but from observing athletes like Canino, who seem to elevate their game when the stakes are highest.
Of course, coaching isn’t just about motivation; it’s about strategy. We’ve integrated data analytics into our training regimen, tracking everything from player sprint speeds—averaging around 8.2 meters per second for our forwards—to pass completion rates, which hover at about 84% for our midfield unit. But here’s where I differ from some of my peers: I believe stats should inform decisions, not dictate them. There’s an artistry to soccer that spreadsheets can’t capture. For instance, one of our defenders, Maya, might not have the fastest lap times, but her spatial awareness is off the charts. She anticipates plays three steps ahead, something I noticed during her tryouts—a trait that reminded me of Canino’s intuitive grasp of the game at such a young age.
Another aspect I’m passionate about is fostering a culture of continuous growth. We hold weekly video review sessions where players analyze their performances, not to criticize, but to celebrate small victories and identify areas for improvement. It’s in these moments that I see the team’s bond strengthen. They’ve become more than teammates; they’re a support system. And honestly, that’s what makes the difference between a good team and a great one. I’ll admit, I’m biased toward programs that prioritize emotional and mental development alongside physical training. In my view, a player who feels empowered off the field will inevitably excel on it.
Looking ahead, our goals are ambitious but achievable. We’re aiming for a conference championship this year, and with the current squad’s dedication, I’m confident we can make it happen. We’ve also ramped up our recruitment efforts, targeting young athletes who show that spark—the same kind I saw in Canino years ago. It’s not just about filling positions; it’s about building for the future. And while I can’t reveal specifics, I will say we’re in talks with two incredible prospects who could very well be the next phenoms in women’s soccer.
In the end, coaching is as much about learning as it is about leading. Every game, every practice, every interaction teaches me something new. What drives me isn’t the trophies or the accolades—though those are nice—but the opportunity to witness growth, both in my players and in myself. The Ambrose University College Women’s Soccer Team is more than a project; it’s a passion. And as we continue this journey, I’m reminded of that packed arena during the UAAP finals, where raw talent met relentless drive. That’s the energy we’re creating here—one victory at a time.
