Cardel named new Columbian Dyip head coach

MANILA, Philippines — Former La Salle high-leaping off-guard Johnedel Cardel is to take over the head-coaching position left behind by Ricky Dandan at the Columbian Dyip ball club.

A reliable source said the team management has chosen Cardel over fellow assistant coach Art dela Cruz.

The same source said Columbian Dyip top official Bobby Rosales will formally notify Cardel of his appointment in a meeting Thursday.

“No other appointment will be made. Cardel will be given a free hand if he wants to bring in an assistant or if he wants to introduce a new system in the team,” said The STAR source.

Dandan tendered his resignation at the end of their elimination round stint in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup where the Dyip finished with a 4-7 win-loss card. He opted to concentrate in his chores with the UP Maroons.

The Dyip team actually still has a slim chance to make the playoff round, but it hinges on losses by Magnolia and Phoenix Fuel in their remaining games.

Cardel is the sixth coach of the Columbian Autocar Corp. franchise after Manny Pacquiao, Glenn Capacio, Chito Victolero, Chris Gavina, and Dandan.

He’s served as assistant coach of Franz Pumaren at GlobalPort before moving over to Columbian Dyip. He has also handled the Rizal Technological U team in collegiate play.