Mark Calado’s leadership and skills have been integral to the ongoing success of Far Eastern University.
Despite a setback against the University of Santo Tomas, Calado’s performance in the following games helped steer the Tamaraws to back-to-back victories against Adamson University and Ateneo de Manila University.
Calado, who was named the UAAP Season 80 Boys’ Volleyball Most Valuable Player, attributes his motivation to the trust and confidence that the coaches have in him. He acknowledges that his individual achievements would not be possible without the team’s collective effort.
“Kasi hindi ko naman po makukuha ‘yung mga numero na ‘yun kung ‘di rin kami magtutulungan as a team,” said Calado, the 2021 PNVF Men’s Champion League MVP.
This trust and teamwork were put to the test when Dryx Saavedra had to be sidelined due to knee pain during their game against Ateneo. The coaches called on Carl Cabatac to take his place, demonstrating their confidence in their players and their ability to step up when called upon.
“Alam naman ng team na kahit sino ‘yung hugutin, hindi naman dapat umasa lang sa anim. Alam din ng team na kung sinong sasalang, may kaniya-kaniyang role,” said FEU head coach Rey Diaz.
“I think, isang pinakamagandang nangyayari sa team, nagre-respond ang kada pumapasok, nagtatrabaho.”
Diaz also commended Calado’s leadership, praising his role in inspiring the team to give their best effort every game.
“Maganda yung paghatak ni Mark sa team. ‘Yung pag-lead ni Mark sa kanila,” he said.
Calado, for his part, is ready to continue leading the Tamaraws to victory in the upcoming games. He also emphasized that the team’s success is his top priority.
“Kahit zero points ako okay lang, basta panalo,” Calado said.
