Like weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, Tokyo-bound pole vaulter EJ Obiena and gymnast Carlos Yulo will have their own teams that will help them in their preparation for what could be their biggest battles of their young and promising careers.
That’s what the Philippine Sports Commission promised when Obiena paid a courtesy call Tuesday at the PSC office inside the vast Rizal M emorial Sports Complex.
Obiena, accompanied by his mother Jeanette and father-coach Emerson, a former athlete himself, visited PSC Chairman William Ramirez on Tuesday, and thanked the PSC Chief for the support that the agency has extended to him.
It was a meaningful Tuesday for Philippine sports as Yulo also earned a slot for next year’s Tokyo Olympics.
Under the PSC plan, Obiena will have his own a physiotherapist, sports nutritionist and sports psychologist.
The PSC will also provide him financial support to cover his housing and nutrition requirements.
Ramirez also added that they will also sit down with Yulo to discuss building his own team.
Obiena is being trained by celebrated coach Petrov Vitaly in Italy, while the elder Obiena assists during his overseas training and ensures continuity while they are in Manila.
Obiena expressed his appreciation for the PSC’s support assuring them that he will give his all to perform at his best.
Ramirez, a long-time basketball coach, reminded Obiena to play without pressure and not forget to have fun.
“When you like what you are doing and you are happy, you perform better.” explained Ramirez who is also Team Philippines’ Chef de Mission.
Presently only Diaz, a Rio Games silver medalist, enjoys the privilege of having her own team.
