THE University of the East (UE) announced on Tuesday that the collegiate basketball head coach Gerardo “Jack” Santiago will no longer serve as the Red Warriors' coach in the coming UAAP Season.
In an official statement, UE lauded Santiago’s effort in leading the Red Warriors to a remarkable run in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Seasons 84 to 87.
Santiago’s “efforts, skills, and smarts” led the men’s team to achieve wins that made it “the most breathtaking UE Red Warriors Men’s Basketball season in recent history.”
“You and the Warriors wowed, upsetting competitors, surprising supporters, thrilling fans within and beyond UE,” the university said.
After four UAAP seasons, the school management said Santiago is parting ways with the team to explore fresh challenges.
UE thanked the head coach for accepting its invitation to lead the basketball team five years ago and becoming the players’ “fatherly frontline.”
It also thanked Santiago’s family for understanding and supporting his work for the squad.
“We in the University of the East community of never-say-die tribes of students, graduates, alumni, faculty members, and officers wish to express our sincere, immeasurable gratitude for what you have accomplished in mentoring the UE Red Warriors squad,” the university said.
“We thank you for not just the many feats you have brought out of our student-athletes but also for your countless sacrifices, care, and big-heartedness, including numerous going-the-extra-mile, above-and-beyond provisions of nourishment,” it added.
UE said Santiago did not only mold great athletes but also better persons and sportsmen who are “able to transcend limitations and draw closer to their highest potential.”
The management said it is sincerely grateful to Santiago and wished him well in his future endeavors.
For his part, Santiago said, "I sincerely thank UE for the privilege and opportunity to work alongside such talented student-athletes, dedicated staff, and passionate supporters for the past five years. The moments on and off the court and the relationships I've built with each of them shall remain close to my heart."
