Jarvey Gayoso to skip final playing year in UAAP, decides to turn pro

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 6) — Ateneo de Manila University football star Jarvey Gayoso has decided to forego his final year of eligibility in the UAAP as he announced that he will be joining a local professional team.

“After much thought and deliberation, and with the guidance of Ateneo de Manila University and the AMFT [the Ateneo de Manila Football Team], I have decided not to return to the UAAP this year,” he said. “Although this was a tough decision to make, ultimately I had to choose what I believe would be what’s best for me and my future,” he added.

Gayoso steered Ateneo to two UAAP men’s football titles — Season 79 and 81. He was hailed the league’s Most Valuable Player twice and named Best Striker four times.

The 22-year-old was also part of the Philippine men’s football that almost nabbed a semifinals berth in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

Gayoso stressed, that although he will not be playing for Ateneo anymore, he will continue to finish his college degree which he considers “a lifelong goal.”

In a lengthy Instagram post Thursday, Gayoso said it was a tough decision to make but he thinks this is what’s best for his career.

View this post on Instagram

After much thought and deliberation, and with the guidance of Ateneo de Manila University and the AMFT, I have decided not to return to the UAAP this year. Although this was a tough decision to make, ultimately I had to choose what I believe would be what’s best for me and my future. After my stint at this year’s South East Asian games, God blessed me with an opportunity to play professional football overseas. Thus, in preparation for this huge task, I have made the decision to join a local professional team. I will, however, continue to pursue my college degree at the Ateneo, as this has also been a lifelong goal. I have played my heart out for the Ateneo for 8 wonderful years. 8 years that have brought me trials, triumph, and memories I will keep with me forever. As a student, my biggest task was to balance my academics and my love for the sport and along with this, came setbacks that tested my ambition. Being an athlete, I was given the opportunity to compete in football and track and field which strengthened my athleticism and versatility. As a football player, I have suffered devastating losses which helped build my character. And taking on the responsibility of representing my country and my alma mater showed my heart and my passion for the beautiful game. So to my dear Ateneo, I’d like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to strive for an Ateneo education, while proudly representing the blue and white. Playing for the Ateneo has improved every aspect of my life and opened numerous doors for me and I could never thank you enough. Choosing the Ateneo was and will always be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. To the 12th men, thank you for your continuous support and love for the game and for cheering us on through every minute. Thank you for all your sacrifices – for coming to watch our games under the heat of the sun, taking the time off your busy schedules to watch us do what we’re most passionate about, and for crying, celebrating, and fighting with us. (1/2)

A post shared by Jarvey Gayoso (@jarveygayoso) on Feb 5, 2020 at 7:11am PST