Feu Big Man Veejay Pre will respond during the match against UST in UAAP season 87. – Marlo Cueto/Inquirer.net
MANILA, Philippines — After a series of dramatic conversations between school officials and his family, Vejay bid farewell to Far Eastern University.
UAAP Season 87 Boys Basketball Rookie of the Year announced his departure Wednesday, surrounded by rumors that he would bring his act to another school.
Read: UAAP: Veejay asks Feu to stay in “Family Pressure” – Exec
“It’s never easy to say “goodbye” and I believe accepting things is the most painful part,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
“As an athlete, growth and improvement are deeply important. But it’s time to challenge yourself to make difficult decisions. My family and I have chosen to make decisions and listen to their wisdom and concerns.”
Pre, a product from FEU High School, believes his family knows what’s best for him.
“This makes them realize how best they want for me and I can’t deny that taking this big step is the most difficult decision ever,” he said.
Read: UAAP: Next to Veejay Pre Eyes Final4 Feu after Top Rookie Award
Two weeks ago, FEU athletic director Mark Morina said Puri wanted to stay, but the young big man is said to be under pressure from his family to leave.
“Please help me. I’m forced to leave. I have great respect and love for my family so I don’t know what will happen. I don’t want to cause conflict within my family. But I don’t want to leave. That’s his last message.”
Molina added in the same interview that the players wanted to stay, but the family said they were willing to let go in advance in natural circumstances.
The 19-year-old forward from Pampanga shined on his debut, averaging 13.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists in the season 87.
Read: ‘Future of UAAP’ Veejay Pre’ can do more,” says the FEU coach
He saw the action in UAAP 3×3 amid speculations of his departure. And it turned out to be his last game as Tamaro.
Pre expressed his gratitude to Feu, including officials, coaches and teammates, saying “he was once called Tamaraw.”
“Let Feu express his deep respect and gratitude. I’m grateful for the wonderful life-changing experience and for the kind of experience you’ve given me and my family,” Pre said. “I owe Feu so much. I always cherish the good deeds, memories, lessons, heartbreak and laughter we share.”
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“My teammates, my Kuyas and my siblings are from high school to college: Thank you to Janrey (Pasaol), Jedric (DAA), Kirby (Mongcopa) and Dwyne (Miranda) for taking in the most meaningful moments of my life.
