A father, a businessman, and the Head Swimming Coach of the USLS. This #PassionWednesday, dive into the legacy of Coach Rogelio L. Dejilla, Jr.
In the world of sports, some coaches teach, and then some coaches inspire. His journey as a high school varsity swimmer has led him to shape generations of athletes as a Head Coach of Swimming for the University’s varsity. His philosophy is simple yet profound: winning is important, but how you win matters more. Coach Junjun ensures that his athletes understand success is not just measured by trophies but by the values they uphold in and out of the pool.
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Inspired by his former coach the late Nonong Villanueva, the father of Negros Swimming, he honed his swimming skills. Coach Nonong was a builder of character and through him, Coach Junjun realized that coaching is more than refining techniques but shaping individuals. In 1991, Coach Junjun chose to return to his alma mater, the University, where he coached the swimming varsity. In his mentorship, he upholds the values of discipline, perseverance, and integrity as a continuation of a legacy passed down to him by his mentor, the late Nonong Villanueva.
Born into a family of swimmers, Coach Junjun’s love for the sport was nurtured from an early age. Now a father to two Varsity Swimmers of his alma mater, Coach Junjun understands what it’s like to be both a parent and a coach. But beyond swimming, Coach Junjun is also a dedicated triathlete, pushing his physical and mental limits across swimming, cycling, and running. His passion extends to his family, as his children have also followed in his footsteps as triathletes. This deep commitment to swimming and athlete development led him to establish Formula Swim, dedicated to swimmers that serves as a reflection of his lifelong passion—an initiative designed to support athletes in their pursuit of excellence.
Coach Rogelio L. Dejilla, Jr.’s legacy is not defined solely by championships or accolades but by the impact he has had on countless athletes. The lessons he has instilled—discipline, integrity, and perseverance—extend far beyond the pool. His influence will continue to shape the lives of the swimmers he has trained, ensuring that his contributions to the sport endure for years to come.