Former athletic stars turn to coaching

MANILA, Philippines – Five former athletics achievers assume new role as coaches for the current crop of Filipino track and field stars.

Arnel Ferrera, John Lozada, Rene Herrera and Danilo Fresnido – all Southeast Asian Games medalists – joined the ranks of new mentors in the 12-man coaching staff recently named by the athletics association.

Dario de Rosas will continue to head the coaching staff alongside Sean Guevarra, Luisito Artiaga, Jeoffrey Chua, Joebert Delicano, Emerson Obiena and Lerma Bulauitan-Gabito, who were also retained.

Gone from the list were Roy Vence, Mario Castro, Arnold Villarube, Agustin Jarina, Nixon Mas and Ernie Candelario.

Also making a return after a decade-long absence from the job is Jojo Posadas.

“It feels good to be back,  helping  discover, train and mold future national team athletes,” said Posadas.

As national team coach more than a decade ago, Posadas produced the likes of Fidel Gallenero, Christopher Ulboc, Jeson Cid and Mercedita Manipol, who have all won medals in the SEAG.

Folllowing some differences on policies with former athletics chief Go Teng Kok, Posadas moved on to coaching schools including Jose Rizal University, a team he steered to a five-peat feat in the NCAA.