I think it is both a blessing and a curse.
If you happen to notice, those who have been in sports for many years, they simply do not retire.
They may actually retire from their regular 8 to 5 jobs because it is mandatory under the law, but later you will notice, they are hired to do sports work again.
I was happy to learn of the recent retirement of Professor Henry Daut of the Mindanao State University. He is supposed to enjoy retirement these days but you see, “once a sportsman, always a sportsman”, as the usual saying goes.
His appointment as deputy executive director of the National Academy of Sports is a blessing to Philippine sports development. The Fulbright Scholar has fully dedicated his life to sports and conducted various events including bringing sports for peace work to far-flung barangays. In fact, he is married to sports development.
This Covid-19 pandemic, however, has affected their operations, a little bit, although Prof. Daut and his team were able to do some online work and lectures. It was indeed challenging to do this type of work knowing that we do not yet have a very reliable and fast internet connection but they were able to do coaching certifications, which is very laudable.
Thanks to lawmakers and Mayor Digong’s signature, the National Academy of Sports was established.
There is so much work to be done and my wish is that Prof.Daut will remain healthy and strong as he continue this noble work in sports.
It was a bright move by Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez to keep Prof.Daut, a workaholic and dedicated sportsman who is a blessing to the sports community.
Mao na kamo nga student-athletes, human gyud mog eskwela, because you will be the future sports leaders in this country.
By the way, on Facebook, Prof.Daut created a Q&A page that welcomes new ideas for sports development. Check out and like “Q & A with HENRY” and help him on his new work at the Academy of Sports. Share your thoughts, submit a research paper or proposal.
I will give you a tip.
Work on a proposal of a Department of Sports. It is about time, we should have one. What do you think sportsman Senator Bong Go?
