Former De La Salle gunner Renren Ritualo (4) participates in a 3-point shootout. Ritualo and fellow ex-Green Archer Don Allado are now part of Franz Pumaren’s coaching staff in Adamson. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Renren Ritualo and Don Allado were star players in their collegiate days with De La Salle, and now, both will try to make a name for themselves as coaches with the two part of their former mentor’s coaching staff in Adamson.
“Coach Franz’s system is proven and we know we’re in good hands with coach Franz,” Ritualo said on accepting a new challenge as part of the Falcons’ coaching staff with Franz Pumaren at the helm. “He asked me and I never hesitated. We’ve been in battles and won championships. I believe in his system and if you believe in one’s system, you won’t have second thoughts.”
“I’m very excited and very thankful. It’s another opportunity for me to grow. I’m here to help coach Franz in helping him change the culture here in Adamson,” Allado, who just announced his retirement from the PBA a little over a week ago.
Ritualo and Allado revealed they’ve always wanted to be coaches after they retire. And when the opportunity came, the two took it right away.
They both see coaching as a chance to pass on their playing experience and knowledge to the younger players.
“I’ve been waiting for this day where I’ll have the chance to coach. I have basketball camps with kids and I’m happy when one of those who I handle excels. This time, I can share it with the varsity teams,” said the sharpshooting Ritualo.
“I can get to impart the younger generation the skills and the knowledge that I have after playing for 16 years. I’m here to learn from coach Franz, coach Tonichi, coach Jack. It’s an opportunity for me to teach and it’s something that I love doing.”
Aside from the two, Pumaren has also called up longtime deputy Jack Santiago and Tonichi Yturri to join him on the bench, as well as last season’s interim coach Mike Fermin.
“I come with a group that is very dynamic. Every one of us has a role on this team to help coach Franz,” said Allado.
The undersized big man also gave a glimpse on how Pumaren operates his teams, saying, “We pay attention to details, defense, and discipline.”
“If you can’t play defense, you can’t play. Coach Franz puts a premium on details and discipline on his team, and we’re here to help him facilitate to the new generation of players,” said Allado.
“Just work hard. The coaching staff will take care of the rest,” he said.