UP Board Rep asks UAAP Commissioner to reconsider Madrid's suspension

The University of the Philippines is asking the UAAP Commissioner to reconsider the suspension imposed on their head coach Rey Madrid.

In a letter written by UP Board Representative Ronualdo Dizer, UP formally asked the Commissioner Andy Jao for leniency.

“As I understand, he meted the 2-game suspension based on his statement during an interview with the press people which happened immediately after the disappointing game against UST,” the statement read.

“As a sign of respect, Mr. Madrid went to your office to air his side and brought his issues to your attention. It’s unfortunate that the press got to him first which resulted into an expression of his dissatisfaction of a certain referee’s performance under a highly emotional state.”

Dizer however agreed with the Commissioner in saying that Madrid’s statement should not have been made public. Still, Dizer hoped for reconsideration for the Maroons.

“Though I believe that his statement is uncalled for, I would like to appeal for you understanding, compassion and leniency on the sanction imposed upon Mr. Madrid. The sanction, in my opinion is maybe too harsh, considering that his incident was Mr. Madrid’s first infraction.”

“I am hoping that this appeal will merit your favorable decision in the highest interest of the UAAP league.”

Without Madrid, the Maroons were easily defeated by the De La Salle University Green Archers, 74-53. UP is hoping that they would have their head coach back for the game against the Adamson Falcons, their last shot to get a win in the first round of eliminations.

“I will look at it again,” said Jao in a short interview with the media after UP’s loss to La Salle. “And maybe I’ll write them a letter since their next game is still on Saturday, a game that I’m really looking forward to.”