By REYNALD MAGALLON
There’s no denying that even though two decades had passed since the last time he set foot on the hardcourt, Robert Jaworski remained a resonating figure not only in the PBA but in the history of Philippine basketball.
The PBA logo, the ‘Never-Say-Die’ mantra and the snatches of memories of his rugged and tough play that fans grew to love – all of it, to this day, remain the lasting imprint of the charming and charismatic Jaworski.
But the biggest legacy perhaps for his son, Pasig City vice mayor Dodot Jaworski, was how his father’s name was kept to the hearts of his ever loyal fans.
“I’m in politics now and I go see people every day and not one single day passes na walang nangangamusta sa tatay ko. Ibig ko sabihin talagang tumatak yung pangalang jaworski sa puso ng Pilipino,” said the younger Jaworksi who attended the 30th PBA Press Corps Awards Night on Tuesday, Sept. 24, on behalf of his father.
The elder Jaworski was feted by the scribes covering the PBA sports beat with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Dodot received the award and also delivered an acceptance speech for his father
“(The legacy) speaks for itself. The way he carried himself on and off the court, minahal sya ng tao,” added Dodot.
“I think that’s what’s really giving him the desire to get better. Very thankful for everyone who has been praying for his health again sana tuluy tuloy lang ang dasal awa ng Diyos makasama uli natin si Jawo,” he added.
The 78-year-old Jaworski has not been seen in public for years now and Dodot shared that he is still recovering from his ailment.
“Nasa bahay lang siya. He’s very comfortable but of course ‘di pa rin niya nababalik ‘yung dati niyang lakas. But the important thing is he’s physically stronger now than he was last year,” said Dodot.
“Last year, medyo mas marami siyang challenges so again, may improvement naman pero ‘di pa rin siya back to a hundred percent,” he added.
Nonetheless, Dodot said his father was elated to receive the awards from the PBA Press Corps.
“Very happy siya kasi karamihan ng members ng PBA press pag meron silang ganito palaging full support ang aking ama in the previous years. Napakalaking karangalang ito na binigay ng PBA press corps sa kanya and talagang malapit sa puso nya,” he added.
