MANILA – Athletes must never stop working on their game and learning their respective sports unless they decide to hang their sneakers for good, said Ilonggo volleyball legend Janley Plagata Patrona.
The Bingawan, Iloilo-native said this served as his motivation during his stint with the De La Salle University Green Spikers as well with the national men’s volleyball team back in the 2005 Southeast Asian Games.
“Athletes must keep on working and never stop learning until they stop playing,” Patrona said at Sports LANG podcast on Sunday night. “It is also vital for athletes to be humble always and have an open mind to any suggestions.”
“During my time, I’m a student of the game. I tried to work on my weaknesses and improve on my strengths during my time,” he added.
Patrona, a two-time University Athletic Association of the Philippines MVP, admitted that there were also low points at early parts of his volleyball career but he did not gave up.
“I continued to work hard to achieve the memorable part of my career which is to win UAAP championships and become part of the national team,” Patrona said.
“To be a successful athlete, we must be respectful to opponents, teammates and coaching staff, give your best during practices and game, and motivate your teammates, push them to the bar,” he added./PN
