The University of Perpetual Help System Dalta and the Philippine volleyball community extended their heartfelt condolences of veteran volleyball tactician Sinfronio “Sammy” Acaylar, who passed away on Thursday.

Acaylar served as head coach of the school’s men’s team from 2010 to 2025 while also serving as sporting director in 2017.

During his stint with the Altas, the school won 14 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s championships.

Their most recent triumph was back in NCAA Season 99 where Perpetual defeated Emilio Aguinaldo College in a best-of-three championship series to clinch their fourth straight crown.

“Coach Sammy was more than just the head coach of the Perpetual Altas Men’s Volleyball team — he was the heart and soul of the program. Through his unwavering dedication and passion, he led the team to numerous NCAA championships, shaping not just athletes, but inspiring countless lives along the way,” the school said in a statement.

“His loss leaves a void that words cannot fill, but his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he guided, cheered for, and believed in.”

The wake will be held at the Perpetual campus in Las Piñas City on a later date.

Beyond the walls of Perpetual, Acaylar made a huge impact for Philippine volleyball.

As an assistant coach for Russian coach Stanislav Lugailo, the national women’s volleyball team won the gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore in 1993, country’s last mint in the tournament.

He last served as a national coach for the men’s team during the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2017.

One of his former players, John Vic de Guzman, paid his respects to the decorated tactician.

“I remember the first time I faced you in the NCAA, I want to beat you because you already have a lot of championships,” De Guzman said.

“So many memories after our championships in the NCAA to international competition. And most of all you have helped so many players! One of the legends of Philippine Volleyball! We salute you.”

The Savogue Spin Doctors, Acaylar’s recent squad in the Spikers’ Turf, offered their condolences to their fallen mentor.

“It’s hard to find the right words to honor Coach Sammy Acaylar. You gave so much to the sport and to your players,” the Spin Doctors said.

“Your lessons will stay with us forever, and your love for the game will live on in everything we do.”

“You taught us how to be better people. Thank you, Coach, for all your wisdom and guidance. You will never be forgotten.”