Sammy Acaylar wasn’t just a coach — he was a mentor, a father figure, and a steadfast supporter to the players he guided throughout his career. His influence transcended the volleyball court, leaving an indelible mark on those who crossed his path. One such player was Des Clemente, a Capital1 standout, whose career was forever shaped by Acaylar’s unwavering belief in her potential.
Clemente almost walked away from volleyball after high school. The National University Nazareth School product had lost her confidence and was set to find a job to help care for her mother. But Acaylar, who had been watching her closely, had other plans. He saw something in the young player, something others might have missed, and was determined to help her reach her potential.
"Syempre sobrang nagulat ako sa balita. Biglaan ‘yung nangyari sa kanya saka sobrang nasaktan talaga ako sa nangyari kasi ako ‘yung isa sa mga nagbago ang buhay dahil sa kanya," Clemente shared, reflecting on her coach’s impact.
When Acaylar recruited Clemente to join Perpetual, the opportunity reignited her passion for volleyball. Despite her initial hesitation, Acaylar’s words convinced her to give the sport another chance. "Siya ‘yung taong nagbigay sa’kin ng confidence," Clemente said. "Sabi niya, 'Kaya mo ‘yan, patunayan mo na hindi ka lang matangkad.'"
Acaylar’s dedication went beyond just coaching. He personally covered expenses for Clemente and made sure she was taken care of, both financially and emotionally. "Grabe ‘yung bonding namin talaga. Kahit saan siya pumunta, lagi kaming magkasama," Clemente recalled. "Hindi lang siya coach, talagang siya ‘yung naging magulang ko nung nasa Perpetual ako."
Clemente’s career blossomed under Acaylar’s mentorship, earning accolades like three Best Middle Blocker awards in the NCAA before moving on to the UAAP with De La Salle University. She would go on to play for teams like Cignal, Sta. Lucia, and F2 Logistics, all under Acaylar’s guidance.
Today, as a 6-foot-1 middle blocker in the Premier Volleyball League, Clemente continues to honor her late coach’s legacy, though Acaylar’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in her life.
"Si Coach Sam ‘yung taong kapag sa player niya, hindi niya kayang hindi tulungan," Clemente said, wiping away tears. "Ang laking kawalan niya sa volleyball kasi nawalan ng isang coach na handang mag-alaga at tumulong sa isang player para mabago ‘yung buhay."
