San Miguel Beer head coach Leo Austria made a significant return to the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Sunday, revealing he recently underwent angioplasty due to a heart condition.
Austria, 68, disclosed his health issues during a press briefing, attributing the discovery to a routine medical checkup required for renewing his coaching license with the Games and Amusement Board.
He explained, "On June 18, we had a medical check-up for GAB license renewal. During the ECG, something was detected that required further examination."
After undergoing a series of tests, Austria's results indicated blocked arteries, leading to a recommendation for an angiogram.
The scans revealed and confirmed everything. I need to undergo angiogram and then it was confirmed that my arteries were blocked.
Leo Austria, Head Coach, San Miguel Beer
Austria described himself as fortunate, noting that had he not undergone the checkup, he might have faced more serious health consequences.
He recounted, "The doctors told me, ‘You are a walking bomb.' Good thing I did not collapse."
Prior to his procedure, Austria continued to participate in team practices, demonstrating his commitment to the Beermen.
Despite being discharged from the hospital on July 9, he was advised by San Miguel team governor Robert Non to rest, allowing assistant coach Peter Martin to lead the team.
- Austria attended practices on July 3 and 4
- He was discharged from the hospital on July 9
- Team started 3-0 under Martin's leadership
Currently, Austria is managing side effects from his medication, which he describes as uncomfortable.
Once he overcomes these side effects, he hopes to resume his coaching duties fully.
San Miguel Beer will face Terrafirma on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, marking Austria's anticipated return to the sidelines.