UNIVERSITY of the Philippines is determined to revive its volleyball program which struggled in the past UAAP seasons.

Moving to the other side of Katipunan, Oliver Almadro has been tapped to take charge of both the Fighting Maroons’ men’s and women’s teams.

It was Bo Perasol’s major first move as UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director, and Almadro, who previously handled Ateneo men’s and then women’s volleyball squads, hopes to bring back the school’s old glory.

The Fighting Maroons’ women’s and men’s squads last reached the Final Four in 2016.

“I’m honored to be given this opportunity. I’m aware that it’ll be hard, but it’s actually easy to trust in the process because of all those who believe in me,” Almadro said.

The work begins for Almadro, who will handpick the yet-to-be-named successors to Shaq Delos Santos (women) and Rald Ricafort (men) for Season 86.

UP is coming off 1-13 seasons in the women’s and men’s divisions.

In his new post, Almadro will have the full faith of Perasol, who was formally appointed to the post last August 16.

“We believe that coach O will bring the UP volleyball program to greater heights,” said Perasol.

Almadro led the Blue Eagles to a men’s three-peat in 2015-17 before guiding the women’s squad to a 2019 championship in 2019. He logged an overall 29-21 record with the women and 60-10 record with the men.

Niña Ytang, the Season 85 2nd Best Middle Blocker who is with the national team competing in the 22nd Asian Senior Women’s Volleyball Championship in Thailand, will banner the Fighting Maroons’ women’s team.

Louis Gamban, meanwhile, will lead the men’s side.

Almadro will still be head of volleyball operations for Premier Volleyball League club PetroGazz. He was also appointed as head coach of his alma mater in the NCAA.