Olayemi Raheem felt the most surprised when the coaching staff named him team captain of the University of the Philippines for the UAAP Season 88 collegiate men’s volleyball tournament.
But surprise quickly turned into resolve.
The Nigerian wing spiker embraced both the responsibility and the challenge that came with the role, immediately showing leadership on and off the court in the Fighting Maroons’ opening game.
Raheem steered UP to a hard-fought 25-21, 23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 15-11 five-set victory over the UE Red Warriors last Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
More than serving as a vocal presence and steady influence, the 6-foot-3 sophomore led by example. He erupted for 30 points, built on 29 spikes and one block, anchoring the Maroons in crucial stretches of the match.
“At first, I was shocked, honestly. I have never been a captain, coming from a different culture and all,” said Raheem of his unexpected appointment.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Still, he understood that the coaches chose him for a reason — and he feels determined to grow into the leader the team expects him to be.
Raheem even views the role as a personal test, especially as he continues to navigate a language barrier.
“Actually, I feel like it’s a challenge for me, which I took upon myself — kaya nga ako eh — because it’s a way for me to develop as a person and as a player,” he shared.
“I can communicate more with my teammates. It’s really nice, actually, being the captain of the team. It’s a role that influences an individual in terms of leadership.”
Fortunately for Raheem, he does not carry the responsibility alone.
Fellow sophomore and key scorer Tommy Castrodes assured that the team — especially the seniors — is fully behind their new captain as he adjusts to his expanded role.
Castrodes delivered 15 points, nine receptions, and nine digs in the win over UE, while Milven Francisco and Angelo Lipata added 14 and 13 points, respectively.
“Yung mga seniors namin, tinutulungan naman din si Raheem kasi nahihirapan din siya sa Tagalog, pero nakaka-catch up naman,” said Castrodes, noting how the veterans have been helping Raheem overcome the language barrier as he settles into captaincy.
