When Mark Calado stepped onto the court Sunday evening, it wasn’t just another game for him. Facing his alma mater, Far Eastern University (FEU)-DN Steel, the former Tamaraw played with the intensity of someone determined to honor his past while securing victory for his present squad.
Calado’s Cignal HD Spikers outlasted FEU in a thrilling contest at the Ynares Sports Arena, overcoming the collegiate team’s spirited effort to claim a 25-27, 25-21, 25-20, 25-20 win. The victory earned Cignal a spot in the semifinals of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
Though coming off the bench and playing only in the final three sets, Calado made an impact. The 24-year-old outside hitter scored 10 points and recorded three digs, bringing his characteristic energy to the match.
“Sobrang saya kasi kapag pumasok ako sa court, parang magkakateammate ulit kami. In-enjoy ko lang ‘yung game kapag ipapasok ako, kapag may chance ako binibigay ko ‘yung best ko,” shared Calado, reflecting on the unique experience of playing against his former team.
Calado, who once carried the Tamaraws in the UAAP, joined Cignal in 2023 and debuted in last year’s Invitational Conference. Back then, he and his professional squad never faced FEU, making Sunday’s match his first official meeting with the Tamaraws in the country’s premier men’s volleyball league.
The match offered Calado a mix of nostalgia and determination, especially with both teams entering the game holding identical 2-1 records in Pool B.
“Oo, syempre, may added motivation kasi nasa top four sila at parehas kaming isang talo lang, so motivation ‘yun for me,” he said.
The stakes were already high, as both squads had secured semifinal berths. Still, the opportunity to square off against his former teammates added extra fire to Calado’s game. His steady presence helped Cignal overcome a sluggish start, rallying the HD Spikers to a four-set triumph and a confidence boost heading into the next phase of the tournament.
Cignal and FEU will face each other again in the round-robin semifinals, where a guest team is expected to up the ante. Calado eagerly anticipates the rematch, cherishing the chance to test himself against the rising stars of his alma mater.
“Excited na excited ulit, syempre, kasi FEU ‘yan. I hope both of us, Cignal and FEU, ay matutunan sa bawat game na mangyayari sa amin,” he added.
Alongside Cignal and FEU, Criss Cross has also punched its ticket to the semis. Meanwhile, La Salle-EcoOil, PGJC-Navy, and Savouge are battling for the final spot in the highly competitive tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
For Calado, the semifinals are not just about advancing but also about continuing his journey of growth—both as a player and a proud alumnus of FEU.
