UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas took a big step towards its bid of bringing back its glory days, tapping veteran coach Shaq Delos Santos as the Golden Tigresses new tactician, replacing Kungfu Reyes.
After 14 years or since 2011, Delos Santos will be returning to the sidelines for UST which seeks to end a 15-year UAAP title drought.
Delos Santos, also the strategist of the Cignal HD Spikers in the PVL, was the architect of the Golden Tigresses’ last crown in 2010.
UST’s Institute of Physical Education and Athletics made the announcement last Tuesday night.
“The University of Santo Tomas is pleased to announce the appointment of Cesael “Shaq” Delos Santos as the new head coach of the women’s volleyball team. Coach Shaq previously led the Golden Tigresses to a championship in UAAP Season 72 in 2010,” the IPEA said.
Delos Santos’ last stint in the collegiate ranks was in 2023 with a brief stop with University of the Philippines before joining the UST brain trust the following year as assistant coach.
Reyes was named program director of UST’s women’s and girls’ volleyball teams.
Reyes, who had a decade-long tenure at the helm of the Golden Tigresses, retains his position as coach of the girls’ volleyball squad.
“Let’s continue to support the women’s volleyball team as it prepares for UAAP Season 88, which UST will host,” the IPEA said.
Last season, the Golden Tigresses wound up as second runners-up.
The likes of Angge Poyos, Regina Jurado, Cassie Carballo, and seniors Detdet Pepito and Jonna Perdido are expected to show the way for the Espana-based side next season.
