Top coach Chot Reyes shares the value of not losing hope

For the fourth time since the award was instituted by the Philippine Basketball Association Press Corps in 1993, Vincent “Chot" Reyes was named Coach of the Year during a simple ceremony at the PBA Office in Libis recently. The Talk ‘N Text mentor received the award from PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios, held the Baby Dalupan trophy replica momentarily for the photo opportunity, then delivered an inspiring speech for our countrymen who are suffering from trying times.

Just like other people who have suffered setbacks and tremendous trials in their lives, the outspoken bench tactician knows how it feels when life is slamming you down. “I got fired, lost my job, suffered setbacks in and out of the games. Like our countrymen who are deeply hurt right now, I’ve experienced pains as well," Reyes said, referring to thousands of Filipinos who are still trying to get up from the beating they suffered from tropical storm “Ondoy." And as with his pre- and post-game talks to inspire his players, the only mentor to win All-Filipino championships under three different teams encouraged suffering Filipinos not to lose hope even during the toughest of times. “I remember one of the speeches of our big boss (Talk ‘N Text honcho) Manny V. Pangilinan. He said, lie in the gutter if you want, but never forget to look at the stars," said Reyes. “There’s always hope at times of stress, that’s one thing each and every one of us should remember." Reyes was Coach of the Year in 1993, the first time the PBAPC started giving out this honor named after the legendary Baby Dalupan, who retired as the winningest coach in league history with 15 championships. Reyes had a Cinderella Finish with the Coney Island Ice Cream Stars at that time. He left the coaching scene from 1998-2000, then came back to handle Pop Cola in 2001. In 2002, Reyes was named co-winner for the Coach of the Year award along with Ryan Gregorio of Purefoods. The following year, the former Ateneo Eagle won the award convincingly. This year, after leading the Talk N Text Tropang Texters to their first All-Filipino crown, Reyes was again the unanimous choice, beating Siot Tanquingcen of San Miguel Beer. - GMANews.TV