Magsanoc confirms resignation from San Beda, cites desire for 'more family time' as reason for quitting NCAA champs

RONNIE Magsanoc on Sunday confirmed that he has stepped down as San Beda coach, saying he wants “more family time" as well as more time to help Meralco's PBA squad in deciding to quit a team he led to an NCAA championship right on his first try.

The rookie mentor, who also serves as Meralco assistant coach in the PBA, tendered his resignation on Saturday night before members of the Red Lions team during their Christmas party at the Meralco office.

The former PBA star said he was proud to have achieved what he had set out to do when he replaced Frankie Lim last year at the helm of the Lions, whom he steered to a record 17^th NCAA championship last October in his first year at the helm.

“I have served my time with the Red Lions and the Beda community. Mission accomplished,” said the 46-year-old coach, who compiled an 18-4 win-loss record in Season 88.

The former Red Cubs star added the Lions’ winning tradition will be sustained through the help of the resources of the school’s top benefactor, Manny V. Pangilinan.

“The SBC basketball program will continue to push forward with Boss MVP’s support and generosity,” he said. “Looking forward to watching the Red Lions back in action in the coming NCAA season.”

Not a few people were surprised by Magsanoc's decision considering the immediate success he had with the Red Lions, but some players said they had an inkling the coach may not have signed on for the long term when he joined the school.

This Magsanoc denied.

"Not true," he said. "It was a total commitment on my part to push the Red Lions program onwards."

As for his players' inkling, Magsanoc said: "I cannot answer for the players' opinion."

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