USHERING IN A new era, San Beda University (SBU) has welcomed Coach Emilio “Kungfu” Reyes Jr. as the new head coach of the Lady Red Spikers ahead of Season 101 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), according to his official announcement through the San Beda Women’s volleyball team Facebook page last June 21.
With his appointment initially teased on the team’s Facebook page last June 14, Coach Kungfu aims to rebuild the team after its challenging 4–14 run in Season 100. Handpicked by the team’s main sponsor, Marinerang Pilipina, Coach Kungfu brings in a disciplined, system-based philosophy grounded in his core mantra: “Get better every day,” as he takes on the challenge of reviving San Beda’s women’s volleyball legacy.
In an interview with The Bedan, the seasoned coach shared the story behind his transition to SBU, recalling how the opportunity came post-season when he was chosen through direct invitation.
“We were handpicked by the management of Marinerang Pilipina. It’s a big challenge for us, and we’re very grateful for the trust,” he expressed, acknowledging the support from both the sponsor and San Beda’s volleyball management. This trust, he emphasized, fuels their mission to hone the team’s skills and elevate its performance.
The Lady Red Spikers concluded the NCAA Season 100 with a 4–14 record, finishing 8th overall. Rather than viewing this as a setback, newly appointed head coach Kungfu sees it as a foundation for growth. He underscored the need to instill discipline, reinforce the basics, and implement a structured system both on an individual and team level.
“So, for now, talagang nag-tatanim kami or nag-inject kami ng lahat ng systematic approach, individual skills, as a group and as a team,” he shared. He furthered that instead of making grand promises, the team is focused on steady work behind the scenes, letting performance speak for itself.
He also noted the importance of understanding balance, especially in supporting young women athletes through both mental and physical challenges.
Coach Kungfu also recognizes the cultural shift that comes with his leadership. With a new system in place, he expressed his observation that some players needed time to adjust, but the staff has remained consistent and patient. He also explained that they are not expecting a perfect climb, but are working together to build something sustainable, emphasizing that team chemistry and trust-building are just as critical as skill development.
Drawing from his experience as program director and juniors coach at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Coach Kungfu also outlined his long-term vision for San Beda. He aims to build stability through strategic recruitment and development over the next two to three years, hoping to elevate the school’s visibility in the volleyball community.
Looking to the future, his vision remains grounded. While reaching the finals is a long-term ambition, the current goal is steady growth—winning one day at a time. “Again, ‘yung fundamentals talaga ‘yung pinaka-baseline namin. ‘Yung permanent ng galaw. Practice makes permanent,” he shared, reaffirming the foundation of his coaching identity.
“The important thing is that while we train, we learn, and we enjoy,” he added.