MANILA – Negrense Camelo Tacusalme is set to hang his boots as he transitions to the team manager role for Kaya Futbol Club-Iloilo ahead of the 2024 Philippines Football League season.
The Talisay City, Negros Occidental-native booter said he is excited with his new role for the Iloilo City-based football club, which is set to undergo massive changes this year with the departure of several key players.
“It’s a huge honor to be appointed as the team manager of Kaya. Football is in my blood, and I am excited to lead our team from this new position,” Tacusalme said in a statement.
The 34-year-old Tacusalme is a former standout of the West Negros University before he played for club teams Pachanga, Ceres Negros FC, JPV Marikina, and Kaya-Iloilo, which signed him last 2018.
The 5-foot-9 Tacusalme was also called up to the Philippine Azkals once in 2017 as part of the national men’s football team that suffered an 8-1 defeat to China in a friendly match.
Tacusalme acknowledged the challenges of his new post following the departure of head coach Colum Curtis as well as long-time media officer Jim Jamlang at the end of 2023.
Also gone from the Kaya-Iloilo roster are Japanese booter Daizo Horikoshi, Henri Bandeken, Justin Baas, Abou Sy, Quincy Kammeraad, Curt Dizon Ricky Sendra, Arnel Amita, and Eric Giganto.
“We’ve had some changes in the team, and I want to acknowledge the players who’ve moved on,” Tacusalme said. “They played a significant role in our achievements that past seasons.”
“But now, it is a time for us to look ahead. We’re getting ready for what’s next, not just to keep our title but also to do even better that before. We want to keep making history. That’s our commitment to all our fans and to the future of our club,” he added.
Kaya-Iloilo came off twin victories in 2023 after capturing the Philippines Football League crown and also successfully defending their Copa Paulino Alcantara championship./PN
