MANILA, Philippines - Rico Maeirhofer, the lanky, high-leaping 6-6 La Salle forward, officially announced his decision to leave the Archers and steer clear of the national team to pursue a childhood dream of joining the pros.
“It is the most precious moment of my life the day I entered La Salle and the school taught me to be the best Christian I can be,” said Maeirhofer in an open letter.
“I’m proud and honored to be a La Salle Green Archer, it’s a dream come through and coach Franz (Pumaren) taught me the value of hard work and time management,” he added.
Maeirhofer said he decided to skip his fifth and final year of eligibility in Season 72 of the UAAP to pursue his dream of playing in the pros.
Maeirhofer also passed up on the chance of joining the Rajko Toroman-coached Smart Gilas Pilipinas team chasing a berth in the 2012 London Olympics.
“I would like to send my apologies to the whole La Salle community, managers, coaches and supporters and thank them all for their understanding,” said Maeirhofer.
“I will always be here to support the team for I will remain a La Sallian and a Green Archer forever,” he added.
In his four seasons in the UAAP, Maeirhofer helped the Archers to two titles and the same number of runner-up finishes. The 2004 crown and the 2005 runner-up trophy were eventually stripped due to eligibility issues.