BEA De Leon remains undecided to return in an Ateneo Lady Eagle uniform to play her fifth and final year of eligibility in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Maddie Madayag and Kat Tolentino, on the other hand, vowed to play one last season for the team that will now be handled by former men’s coach Oliver Almadro in Season 81.
“Maddie will stay, Kat I’m sure, she’ll play,” said Almadro, who won three titles for the Blue Eagles in his seven years as head coach.
De Leon, however, is still undecided.
“The comment stays true. As of now, it’s still a long way to go before the next season so I also want to rest for a bit and avoid thinking of commitments or responsibilities,” de Leon told reporters during a live stream broadcast panel in the Premier Volleyball League on Wednesday.
“Eventually, I’ll make a sure decision,” she added.
Almadro is hoping that de Leon, a vital cog for the team in all her four seasons, would return to lead the team for the last time.
“Bea? I talked to her and I’m confident that she will play. Bea has the heart of an athlete. I’m confident she will heed the call of the Ateneo community and the fans to [consume] her last playing year,” he said.
Fas have also been persuading the Ateneo middle blocker to play one more year.
“It’s very overwhelming—the support from the fans. Thanks for that. Whatever I decide to do, I hope that you guys stay by my side,” she said.
“Coach Oliver will be a huge factor. As we know, he’s a legend. He’s done great things with the Ateneo men’s team. If ever I play, I’d look forward to that,” she added.
While de Leon remains uncertain, Almadro said he will begin the process of establishing his system to the rebuilding Lady Eagles side starting this month.
“I did not instantly win a title for the men’s team but the Ateneo Lady Eagles are rebuilding, so I’m coming from scratch,” he said.