Woman of power and purpose

Erika Dy holds a special place in this basketball-crazy nation.

- By MARK REY MONTEJO

Driven by passion and a woman armed with sheer will, Dy rose high in the sporting world marked by male leaders.

She is the first-ever female executive director of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), and her position should ring bells as it is one of the most prominent seats in the ever popular federation known for supporting the Gilas program.

From her early years in college as a player and up to her excellent professional background that fits well with the vision she brings on and off the court, Dy seemed destined for the job.

"Reaching dreams require trust and courage. There's no substitute for hard work and patience," the 43-year-old Dy said.

Dy is a full-blooded Atenean with several tour of duties as a shooting guard in college basketball and as a coach for the Blue Eagles women's team.