The country’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz takes on a new challenge: teaching at the UP Diliman College of Human Kinetics.
Hidilyn Diaz is looking to give back to the next generation not only as an athlete, but as an educator as she joined the faculty of the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Human Kinetics.
In a Facebook post by long-time manager Noel Ferrer, it was announced that Diaz-Naranjo will be beginning her journey in education by January 2026.
Diaz-Naranjo and her team met with UP CHK to discuss her course, logistical arrangements, and initiatives aiming to promote weightlifting in collegiate sports. She met with college executives and fellow instructors led by UP CHK Dean Dr. Marla Frances Mallari.
For Ferrer, he said that the new opportunity is another chance for Diaz-Naranjo to pay it forward with those wanting to involve themselves in sport.
“By mentoring young athletes and imparting the values inherent in the sport, Diaz pays forward the opportunities she received, cultivating a new generation of Filipino weightlifters equipped with resilience, discipline, and determination,” wrote Ferrer.
“Through her academy and advocacy, she kindles a lasting legacy that honors her country and inspires others to strive for excellence,” he added.
As for Diaz-Naranjo herself, she welcomed the opportunity and expressed her excitement in taking on a new challenge in her journey in sports.
“Excited akong magturo, at salamat sa UP sa pagwelcome sa akin. Masaya akong ishare ang mga nalalaman ko sa weighlifting, sa sports at sa buhay," she said.
“At excited din akong matuto sa aking magiging estudyante at co-faculty members na tuturuan din daw akong magpickleball at iba pang sport," she continued.
Apart from her teaching gig, Diaz-Naranjo is also involved in shaping the next generation of athletes through her Hidilyn Diaz Weightlifting Academy.
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.