Long-time Ginebra San Miguel assistant coach Olsen Racela formally signed up as the new head coach of the Altas in a simple ceremony held on Thursday at Perpetual Help in Las Piñas City.
Perpetual Altas team manager Anton Tamayo welcomed Racela.
“The first step I will take is to meet the coaching staff like coach Myk Saguiguit, coach Joph Cleopas before we meet the players.’ Racela said.
“Our target is to start training on Monday as the players are now starting to come back from their vacation,” said Racela. “I’m meeting with Perpetual pride Scottie Thompson, too, of course. He was there to help as an alumni player and share his past experience as a national team member, there’s a lot to share with the kids.”
The Altas fell a win short of a seat in the Final Four as they ended with only 10 victories and eight losses in NCAA Season 99, won by the San Beda Red Lions.
“It’s a new journey, what lies ahead for the next season for coach Olsen and coach Myk’s combination. More to go for Perpetual. They still have something to look forward to,” said Thompson.
The Altas boast of an almost intact lineup from the last season’s campaign, with players Mark Denver Omega, Nath Sevilla, Christina Pagaran, Cyrus Nitura, Arthur Roque II, Carlo Ferreras, John Abis, Rey Barcuma, John Paul Boral, Angelo Gelsano, Richard Movida, Jearico Nuñez, Shawn Orgo, Bryle Mascariñas and Justin Thompson coming back.
Only court general Jielo Razon and Jasper Cuevas finished their five playing years with the Altas.