Paeng named coach of Philippine bowling team

MANILA, Philippines - Paeng Nepomuceno, the only bowler in history to win the World Cup four times, has been tasked to put the Philippines back on the right lane.

The Philippine Bowling Congress yesterday announced the appointment of the great bowler as head coach of the national team.

Nepomuceno’s contract, according to PBC executive vice president Steve Robles, has been forwarded to the Philippine Sports Commission for approval.

There shouldn’t be any problem with the PSC giving its stamp of approval. According to Robles, the contract between Nepomuceno and the PBC is “open-ended.”

It has no expiration date, meaning Nepomuceno will be at the helm of the national team for as long as everybody’s happy with his performance.

“Paeng has the credentials, the credibility,” said Robles, also president of the Philippine Senior Bowlers. He said it was not hard to get Nepomuceno on board.

“When we approached him, he told us na matagal na niyang hinihintay (he’s been waiting long) to serve the national team as a coach.

“He’s a certified coach -- gold level. He’s well-respected in the bowling circles,” Robles said.

First on hand for the 59-year-old Nepomuceno, winner of the World Cup in 1976, 1980, 1992 and 1996, is to form the national team, and turn the players into winners.

“We want results now,” said Robles, adding that tryouts are now on, just in time for two big events in July and October. Including the Asian Masters.

Robles said there are eight slots to be filled for the men’s side and four in the women’s side.

Among those seeking inclusion to the team to be coached by arguably the greatest bowler of all time are Enzo Hernandez, Kenneth Chua, Liza del Rosario and Liza Clutario.