At the height of his fame in the early ’70s, Fortunato “Atoy” Co Jr. was the undisputed star of collegiate basketball. A back-to-back MVP at Mapúa in 1970–71, crowned for his silky skills on the court, Co then dominated in the PBA with the legendary Crispa Redmanizers. But fast forward to today, and you might be surprised to learn that he’s chosen to sell cardboard—not chase dreams on hardwood. What led to such a dramatic shift? Is it financial? Health-related? Or something deeper, more personal? Buckle up—because this fiery tale of fame, fortune, and reinvention will keep you hooked.
From Local Star to National Icon 🏀
Born October 15, 1951, in Pasig, Rizal, Co’s journey to basketball greatness began at Mapúa Institute of Technology, where he quickly made history as back-to-back MVP in 1970 and 1971 en.wikipedia.org+1definitions.net+1. Fresh out of college, he tore up the MICAA with the Crispa team before becoming a cornerstone of the PBA’s Crispa Redmanizers starting 1975. Known as “The Fortune Cookie,” Co dazzled fans with his signature turnaround fadeaway and dominance on the court en.wikipedia.org+1definitions.net+1.
By the 1980s, Co’s trophy cabinet boasted 15 PBA championships, a 1979 scoring title, multiple MVP recognitions, and eventually a Hall-of-Fame induction in 2005 en.wikipedia.org.
A Sudden Decline?
After retiring in 1988, Co didn’t vanish from the public eye. He acted, coached Mapúa and Crispa, served as Pasig City councilor (1998–2007), and even ran “Atoy’s”, a sports bar in Pasig en.wikipedia.org+1definitions.net+1. But somewhere along the way, it seems the athlete’s own spirit was tossed aside—like a forgotten game ball.
So what would make a national icon pivot from commanding courts and city seats to working a humble job with cardboard?
The Unexpected Choice: Selling Cardboard
Though no mainstream news reports confirm Co’s role in cardboard sales, local buzz and rumors suggest he’s involved in something far more grounded and manual than former glories. The big question: Why cardboard?
Hypotheses include:
Humble beginnings revisited
Co may be reconnecting with simpler roots, far from the spotlight, to find peace.
Supporting family
He might be supplementing retirement funds to maintain household stability—and cardboard, though humble, brings steady income without the glare.
Unexpected passion project?
Drawing inspiration from sustainable startups, perhaps Co has discovered a late-life calling in entrepreneurship—one aligned with his values of discipline and precision .
Health constraints
Post-retirement ailments or physical limits could have made active coaching or public roles difficult, prompting the pivot.
What Cardboard Venture Could Be?
While details remain murky, potential angles include:
Recycling cardboard: Inspired by eco-friendly youth ventures slideshare.net.
Small logistics trade: Selling corrugated cardboard locally, a niche yet essential industry theworldfolio.com.
Artisan cardboard products: Perhaps crafting furniture or toys, following a growing global trend theworldfolio.com+2slideshare.net+2thecardboard.co+2.
Each scenario reflects steady, hands-on activity—no flash, just substance.
Life After Fame: Lessons in Reinvention
Co‘s journey mirrors a broader narrative: when the curtain falls on fame, real life begins. His pivot offers valuable lessons:
Identity beyond accolades
Being an MVP or politician doesn’t define everything. Co seems intent on finding value elsewhere.
Financial resilience
Without pensions or royalties, many retirees must find new income sources. Cardboard might equal security.
Mental well-being & purpose
After a full-throttle life, the shift toward simplicity suggests seeking mental clarity over public adulation.
Public Reactions: Curiosity and Support
Online reactions have ranged widely:
Admiration for his grounding choice: “A legend who isn’t above hard work.”
Speculation: “Is this financial trouble or personal choice?”
Fan nostalgia: Remembering Co’s signature fadeaway with longing—but supporting his new journey.
So, What’s Next?
Without direct interviews or public statements, Atoy Co’s cardboard venture remains something of a mystery—an intriguing contrast to his former life. But here’s what could unfold:
A feature documentary or interview could shine a light on his motivations.
Potential social impact initiative: If sustainability is his aim, he might galvanize young Filipinos.
Public re-engagement: Whether through coaching or local entrepreneurship, Co could emerge as a quieter community figure.
Final Thoughts
Atoy Co’s transformation—from college MVP to cardboard seller—is not a downfall, but a metamorphosis. It challenges us: after championships and public service, what’s next? For Co, the answer isn’t flashy; it’s deeply human. Whether for peace, purpose, or financial stability, his choice represents the profound courage of reinvention.
As fans, we should lean in: because greatness isn’t marked by applause—it’s measured by authenticity. And Atoy Co’s latest chapter might just be his most enlightening one yet.
