Gorayeb resigns after NU’s failed Final 4 bid, open for return

NU coach Roger Gorayeb. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Roger Gorayeb said Saturday he is leaving his head coaching post at National U after failing to lead the the Lady Bulldogs to the Final Four in the two years he’s been in charge.

“As a courtesy, I have to tender my resignation after two years with the team,” said Gorayeb after the Lady Bulldogs lost to University of Santo Tomas in five sets, 20-25, 19-25, 25-22, 25-21, 15-12, at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Bulldogs ended their season at no. 5 with a 7-7 record while the Golden Tigresses returned to the Final Four as third seeds with a 9-5 card.

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While he is open for a return depending on the school’s decision, Gorayeb said he is happy with what he will leave in NU.

“This is a courtesy resignation, if they want me back of course I’ll continue the things I’ve done with the team, but I’m fine if they don’t want me back,” said Gorayeb.

It was under Gorayeb’s tenure where Jaja Santiago and setter Jasmine Nabor met their respective potentials.

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Santiago was utilized mainly as a middle blocker in her first three years but she slowly transitioned into an open hitter while still maintaining her presence in the center.

Nabor, meanwhile, played her first full year in Season 79 as the team’s primary setter.

“Jaja found a new position, our setter Jasmine is still a greenhorn and this is her first season as a setter,” said Gorayeb. “The team actually has a great start, they just have to develop as one.”