UAAP set to decide on Torres-Robinson spat
MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP Board of Managing Directors (BMD) is set to finalize its decision on the spitting incident involving La Salle coach Topex Robinson and UP guard Reyland Torres on Saturday, October 12, after hearing both their sides.
According to well-placed sources, the BMD, represented by the six other UAAP schools, met separately with Torres and Robinson during a meeting held at a hotel in Quezon City on Thursday, October 10, with the Maroons and Archers inhibiting from the proceedings.
In documents obtained by Rappler, Robinson vehemently denied that he intentionally spat at the player at the 3:06 mark of the third quarter in the Green Archers’ 68-56 win over the Fighting Maroons last October 6.
“Such an action goes against the principles I stand for, and I assure you that I did not engage in such behavior,” said Robinson in a written statement signed by him.
Per the second year La Salle coach, Torres allegedly approached him at the 3:06 mark of the third quarter and mouthed, “Ta** ina niyo, nagkakagulo na kayo!” ([expletive], your team is in disarray!)
During the point of contention, Robinson admitted that he shouted back at the player and apologized for melting down.
“I acknowledge that this was a lapse in judgment on my part, and I sincerely apologize for my actions,” Robinson said.
“As a coach representing La Salle in an academic league like the UAAP, I understand that I should have acted with more restraint and professionalism.”
In contrast, Torres claimed that Robinson intentionally spat at him while he passed in front of the La Salle bench.
“Hindi maikakaila ang dura na kumapit sa aking braso dahil naramdaman ko ang pagdampi at pagkapit ng dura na malapot at maraming bula,” Torres said on his notarized statement, adding photographic evidence.
(It is without a doubt that it was saliva that landed on my arm since I felt how the spit, which was bubbly and sticky, landed on it.)
Torres also alleged that referees failed to listen to his complaint and personally just wiped off the alleged pathogenic proof after his pleas went for naught.
He also said that he wants to move on from the incident and brushed off social media allegations that he intentionally spat at himself to blow up the incident.
In addition, Torres explained that he decided to push through with the complaint, citing an old YouTube video showing one of the hosts saying that Robinson used to spit discreetly during his playing days as a gritty defender in the PBA.
Nevertheless, multiple reports have stated that the two will be given a “stern warning” for the incident, according to recommendations from a subcommittee. – Rappler.com