Pioneer ng Philippine volleyball na si Ruben Labay, pumanaw na
- Ruben Labay, a pioneer of Philippine volleyball and a bronze medalist at the 1962 Asian Games, passed away in May at the age of 83
- He was a crucial member of the trailblazing national squad that secured the country's first-ever volleyball medal on the continental stage
- In addition to his elite athletic career, he coached the University of Santo Tomas Tigers in the 1990s and earned the title of "Mr. Volleyball of Southeast Asia"
- The Philippine National Volleyball Federation honored his enduring legacy, recognizing his vital role in establishing the foundation of the sport for future generations of Filipino athletes
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The Philippine volleyball community is mourning the loss of Ruben Labay, a historic cornerstone of the sport and a member of the national team that won a bronze medal at the 1962 Asian Games, who passed away in May at the age of 83.
Source: Instagram
Ruben was among the standard-bearers of the men's national team's early rise on the Asian stage. His contributions laid the foundation for Philippine volleyball, inspiring generations of athletes to follow. Following his distinguished playing career, Ruben further dedicated himself to the sport as a coach, mentoring the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tigers Men's Volleyball Team in the 1990s and earning the revered title of "Mr. Volleyball of Southeast Asia".
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) honored his enduring legacy by describing him as a true pioneer of the sport's formative years. The federation highlighted his vital presence within the team that secured the country's first major international podium finish in Jakarta.
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“The PNVF honors the legacy of Mr. Ruben Labay―a true pioneer of Philippine Volleyball and a proud member of the National Team that brought home the country's first Asian Games medal in 1962,” the federation stated in an official tribute.
Ruben's impact on the international stage was marked by his consistent athletic excellence and strict competitive discipline, setting high standards for the athletes who would eventually succeed him on the national team.
“As part of that historic squad, he represented the Philippines with excellence, discipline, and pride, helping elevate the sport on the International stage during it's formative years,” the federation continued.
His dedication went beyond the wins and losses of his career, fundamentally shaping the trajectory of the sport in the country and serving as a lasting point of pride for the Filipino athletic community.
“His contribution extends beyond medals and matches. Mr. Labay's commitment to the game helped lay the foundation of Philippine volleyball, inspiring generations of athletes who continue to carry the flag today,” the PNVF added.
To conclude the statement, the federation extended its ultimate gratitude to Ruben for his lifetime of service to the Filipino volleyball community.
“Maraming salamat po. Hindi namin kayo makakalimutan.”
In another heartbreaking development in the sports community, Adamson University boys’ athletics team standout Mark Dave Nicolas passed away at the age of 18, prompting an outpouring of sorrow throughout the local sports community. The University Athletic Association of the Philippines released an official statement paying tribute to his character, achievements, and lasting impact while extending condolences to his loved ones and teammates. Nicolas was regarded as one of the country’s promising young athletes after breaking the 800-meter record at the Palarong Pambansa and earning a silver medal for the Philippines in the ASEAN School Games.
Earlier, former volleyball player Cindy Imbo passed away at the age of 31 following her battle with cancer. Imbo previously played for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the Premier Volleyball League. Her death was confirmed by the Philippine Coast Guard Coast Guard Special Service Office.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
