Rasmo out to make history
The moment the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. kicks off its 16th season on August 6 at the Cebu Coliseum, Cebu-based Bacoleño bench tactician Rommel Rasmo will right away etch his name in stone as the first ever CESAFI coach to handle two teams wh
At the helm of threetime juniors champion Sacred Heart SchoolAteneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, the 37-year-old Rasmo also takes the coaching reins of defending title-holder University of San Carlos Warriors in the collegiate division something that no other bench tactician has done before.
There is that famous Biblical saying that one cannot serve two masters at the same time. Aware of that, Rasmo said he is ready to face all the challenges that will come along the way in his pursuit of glory.
"It’s all about time management. Both teams support me all the way. And I make sure I deal with them professionally. All of us have one goal and act as one team. We all want to bring out the best in us on and off the court. This is also a great opportunity for me to grow not only as a coach but as a person," said Rasmo.
Mixing up his training schedules and plotting different game plans for the two respectable teams, it would be a tall order for Rasmo as he marches his way towards a historic quest.
"As they always say ball is round. I often tell my players let’s only control and forget about the things we can’t control. If we make history for both teams it’s God’s will. But what I’m sure of is that I will prepare both teams for history," he said.
Now on his 11th year with the Jesuit-run institution, the outspoken Rasmo has already made a name for himself after steering the Magis Eagles to various championships highlighted by three CESAFI titles (2012, 2014 and 2015) and a gold medal in the 2013 Palarong Pambansa.
But his coaching philosophy goes beyond the confines of the hardcourt. For him, building players with heart and character is what matters most.
"I’m a defensive coach and like to run open court basketball. But all of the system boils down to one thing which is character. We build their character day in and day out for everything is on it already, their discipline, perseverance and unselfish act," he said.
As for the upcoming CESAFI season, Rasmo's foremost goal is to deliver a rare grandslam feat for the Magis Eagles and at least a Final Four appearance for the Warriors, who last year clinched their first ever major basketball crown in 58 years under the wings of coach Britt Carlo Reroma.
"Defending the crown for Ateneo. To make it to the final four for USC and take their chances from there, one game at a time. But again, I will prepare both teams for history making. These are my goals for the upcoming CESAFI season," said Rasmo.
He had savored the sweet flavor of success many times already, but Rasmo looks beyond all the glory and honor when pressed on his greatest accomplishment.
"Seeing my players finishing school and becoming a better citizen. That would be my biggest achievement as a coach," said Rasmo.
That makes Rasmo a hallmark of coaching brilliance.