Dimaunahan joins race for UST coaching post

MANILA, Philippines — Long-time Blackwater deputy coach and University of Santo Tomas alumnus Aries Dimaunahan has expressed his availability and willingness to coach the Growling Tigers in the UAAP.

Dimaunahan, 42, has submitted his letter of intent to UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics (IPEA) director Fr. Ermito de Sagon, OP, for the position recently vacated by Aldin Ayo.

“I am willing to help the university in any way I can,” said Dimaunahan, who joined a growing list of applicants.

The others seeking the post are UST alumni Siot Tanquincen, Estong Ballesteros, Chris Cantonjos, Gilbert Lao, Ed Cordero and Potit de Vera.

Ayo resigned as UST coach even before he was banned indefinitely by the UAAP following the Sorsogon bubble controversy. He said he will appeal the ban which he described as “inappropriate.”

Ex-Kia mentor and current Rain or Shine assistant Chris Gavina and legendary PBA import Sean Chambers are the only non-Thomasians who have shown interest in the job following the departure of seven key players and Ayo.