MANILA, Philippines – In Philippine women’s volleyball, there is only one Ramil de Jesus, and there won’t be anyone like him again.

Still going strong in his 27th year as the La Salle Lady Spikers head coach, the legendary mentor reached his 300th UAAP career win – all with the same school – on Saturday, February 17, as his formidable team thrashed the Adamson Lady Falcons, 25-16, 25-16, 25-18.

UAAP | LOOK:

Congratulations coach Ramil de Jesus for win no. 3️⃣0️⃣0️⃣!#UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/LKaaUcNJTD

— Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) February 17, 2024

Making a rare appearance in the postgame press conference to celebrate his milestone, a lively De Jesus waxed grateful for all the blessings that have come his way, leading up to win No. 300 to kick off his 12th UAAP title defense.

“It’s not like I’m counting, but in my 27 years, I suppose I’ve reached that mark. I’m just happy to reach that mark because I never imagined getting there,” said De Jesus, widely considered the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) coach in Philippine volleyball.

“All that matters to me really is I give the kids great conditioning with their games and performances, not reaching those kinds of milestones,” added De Jesus, who has politely refused media appearances in the last two years due to personal reasons.

Having handled stars like Aby Maraño, Kianna Dy, Mika Reyes, Manilla Santos, and Cha Cruz, De Jesus pointed to the importance of discipline as his legacy-defining secret, and how important it is for every aspect of an athlete’s life.

“I just want to be remembered as someone who keeps his players smart in games and in dressing up uniforms, things like that. I’m very particular with those things,” he continued.

“That’s the trademark, when you say La Salle, you know this team is proper, is disciplined under coach Ramil whether inside or outside the court. I keep reminding them that my guidance extends beyond the court, and there will come a time when you can apply our lessons and advice.”

UAAP | WATCH:

Coach Ramil de Jesus wants to remembered as a coach who has brought flair, passion, and discipline to his players as he nabbed his 300th UAAP win.

He is responsible for all 12 DLSU titles. #UAAPSeason86 pic.twitter.com/YKbx4eCM34

— Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) February 17, 2024

Now facing a new title-retention challenge after losing four starters last season, De Jesus is, as always, locked to the task at hand with his young star core of reigning MVP Angel Canino, rising opposite Shevana Laput, and new captain setter Julia Coronel.

“I’m glad Angel is more mature. Last season, I only had her for a few months, so now, I’m glad she’s stepped up in her maturity,” De Jesus said.

“The transition will be difficult, because it’s tough to replace the players you lost. Thankfully, there are new players ready to train and fill those positions out. That’s the great thing happening now, you have players ready to play their roles and step up.” – Rappler.com