AVERAGING double digits in scoring can be done quite easily in the UAAP.

But the feat of grabbing rebounds in the same fashion while scoring in double figures practically every game can only be claimed by Far Eastern University Tamaraws? star forward Aldrech Ramos.

Scoring at least 10 points and clawing 10 rebounds is like a regular day in the office for Ramos, who is also a third year Finance major in FEU. I asked him what his secret was for being the UAAP?s double-double machine and he said it?s a mixture of different things put together.

Diet and exercise

His diet is basically the same as other ballers would normally have but he said he still eats ?tapsilog? and other power breakfasts that some athletes might probably shy away from. But street foods are a big no-no for him which poses quite a challenge, considering the myriad of street foods being sold right outside their campus.

Exercise and conditioning also gets him ready for the game. Three hours a day of practice with his team mates and some weight lifting and shooting during his free hours constitute his daily regimen.

The X-factor

His exposure in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL) and the Smart-Gilas RP developmental team also played a big role in his elevation as a legit star in the UAAP.

The training and the lessons that he gets from the Smart-Gilas team under Coach Rajko Toroman, who is familiar with international basketball, honed his skills further and lifted his game to a higher level like his fellow Gilas teammates Rabeh Al-Hussaini of Ateneo, Dylan Ababou of UST and fellow FEU Tamaraw Andy Barroca.

Personal challenge

?I always challenge myself every game to play hard and maintain my double-double average,? he said. It?s a challenge that will benefit not only his team but also his bid for a shot at the Most Valuable Player honors after finishing second in the statistical race at the end of the first round.

The Tams comfortably sit on the second spot of the team standings and a twice-to-beat edge in the semis is what they are trying to secure. With the UAAP?s double-double machine in their camp, a championship for the green and yellow may not be far-fetched at all.