Pumaren turns focus on forming RP Youth 5

By Jasmine W. Payo
Inquirer
Last updated 09:51pm (Mla time) 10/12/2007

MANILA, Philippines--THIS TIME, La Salle coach Franz Pumaren hopes to bring his winning touch to a raw set of talents.

Pumaren turns his attention to the Philippine Youth team just days after steering the Green Archers to their seventh UAAP men's basketball championship.

"I'm meeting with the [BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas] next week to discuss the plans and programs for the youth team," he said during a press conference Friday.

Pumaren, appointed as national youth coach last July, will form a pool of 25 players between 14 and 18 years old before training begins next month.

"As much as possible, I want to get some players with collegiate experience," said Pumaren, who also plans to tap aspirants from the provinces.

Tasked to assist Pumaren are San Beda Cubs mentor Ato Badolato and Ateneo assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga.

Among the competitions lined up next year for the Youth team are the Southeast Asian Basketball Association juniors tournament and the Asian Youth Championship.

The first Youth Olympics will also be among the team's long-term targets following the International Olympic Committee's announcement of the inaugural competitions in 2010.