Guiao takes over Rain or Shine reins

MANILA, Philippines - Joseller “Yeng” Guiao, whose coaching contract with Air21 expired last Dec. 31, has moved over to Rain or Shine, bringing a rich coaching experience and credentials highlighted by five PBA championships.

Guiao signed a two-year contract with the Asian Coatings Inc. franchise yesterday, leaving the Lina Group team which he coached for two years.

Air21, a team still in search of a first championship since joining the league in 2002, has appointed team manager Allan Gregorio as interim coach.

“I’m thankful to Air21 for the opportunity they gave me to be with them. There’s no problem in our relationship. It was a mutual decision that we have to set new directions for the team and myself,” Guiao told The STAR.

“I’m just sad my desire to win a championship for them didn’t happen,” added Guiao, whose highest accomplishment with the Express was a third-place finish in the 2008-09 Fiesta Conference.

At Rain or Shine, Guiao said he’s inheriting a team “already on the threshold of being a true contender.”

“Coach Caloy Garcia and the management have done well on building the team. It already has a good foundation and good structure. I think the basic need is the finishing touches,” Guiao said.

“I will build up on what they’ve already built,” added Guiao on his new team which boasts of talented young players in Sol Mercado, Gabe Norwood and JayR Reyes.