For Patrick Sleat, joining the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA is a move made with one goal in mind: growth.
The 24-year-old guard spent three seasons with Far Eastern University (FEU) in the UAAP before deciding to take his talents to the NCAA, suiting up for the Perpetual ALTAs.
At Perpetual, Sleat reunites with a familiar face, former FEU head coach Olsen Racela, who has been leading the Las Piñas-based squad since last season.
“[I’m] trying to make sure na ‘yung last two years ko, I'm in a position na makakapaglaro. Hindi [lang] makakapaglaro [kundi] magiging in a position where growth can be achieved. So I felt like nung times ko with Coach O (Racela), that's where I grew the most,” Sleat told GMA News Online.
Sleat said he is enjoying his time with the ALTAs so far and is excited for fans to see the strong bond the team has developed during the offseason.
Growing and going further
Sleat is determined to make the most of his remaining collegiate years and fulfill a dream he’s held since growing up in Mindoro.
Back in his elementary days, Sleat tried various sports. As a grade schooler, he competed in taekwondo and even represented in the Palarong Pambansa. He also dabbled in football. But eventually, it was basketball that won his heart.
“Kasi basketball ‘yung may future,” he said in jest.
“Hindi, at saka basketball yung nilalaro ng mga tropa ko rin talaga. Kumbaga sa amin, pag magaling ka maglaro, astig ka noong bata ka eh.”
Now, Sleat is set to return to the court and grow further to chase the dream that started in Puerto Galera.
The NCAA Season 101 opens on October 1.
—GMA Integrated News
