Veteran volleyball coach Sammy Acaylar leaves behind a legacy of excellence in collegiate and professional volleyball.
Philippine volleyball lost a revered figure as veteran coach Sinfronio “Sammy” Acaylar passed away on Thursday, January 30 at the age of 66.
Acaylar suffered a stroke on Monday night and was confined in the intensive care unit of the University of Perpetual Help Hospital in Las Piñas City before his passing.
Recognized as one of the most influential coaches in the country, Acaylar played a crucial role in Philippine volleyball’s rise, having been part of the coaching staff that guided the national women’s team to its last Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medal in 1993. He later led the men’s national team in the 2017 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
Acaylar was instrumental in building the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta’s volleyball program, turning the men’s team into a dominant force, winning multiple NCAA championships and a four-year title streak.
He eventually became the school’s sports director.
In club volleyball, Acaylar coached Cignal and Sta. Lucia in the Philippine Superliga before moving to the Premier Volleyball League with Gerflor. The team disbanded due to wage issues.
Before his passing, he was actively coaching Savouge Aesthetics in the Spikers’ Turf.
Acaylar leaves behind a lasting legacy in Philippine volleyball, having developed numerous athletes and teams that continue to shape the sport today.