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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Collegiate devider Mental edge key in Fighting Maroons' winning start

Mental edge key in Fighting Maroons' winning start

Published Feb 14, 2026 01:51 pm

At A Glance

  • The Fighting Maroons needed five sets to outlast the University of the East Red Warriors, 25-21, 23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 15-11, and treated the match as an early learning experience — one that underscored the importance of relying on more than just skills.
The UP Fighting Maroons win in five sets in the UAAP men's volleyball tournament. (UAAP Images)
The UP Fighting Maroons win in five sets in the UAAP men's volleyball tournament. (UAAP Images)
By CHRISTAN SALVAÑA, Intern
University of the Philippines head coach Carlo Cabatingan credited his team’s mental focus for their winning start in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, Feb. 14.
The Fighting Maroons needed five sets to outlast the University of the East Red Warriors, 25-21, 23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 15-11, and treated the match as an early learning experience — one that underscored the importance of relying on more than just skills.
“We need to work more on how we keep our game consistent and how we keep ourselves composed every time, especially how we manage our emotions. In terms of skill, this is UAAP — everyone is skillful and physically gifted. The real game here is the mind,” said Cabatingan.
Team captain Olayemi Raheem and sophomore Tommy Castrodes echoed their coach’s sentiments, highlighting the squad’s focus on mental stability and lessons carried over from last season.
“A lot to be improved, but throughout the offseason, we tried to polish our skills. It’s all in the mind now. We try to be more mentally stable when it comes to playing, staying focused, and learning throughout the game,” said Raheem, who paced the team with 30 points built on 29 kills.
“Second year ko na ’to sa UAAP, siguro marami akong natutunan from last season. Siguro binalikan namin ’yon, prinaktis sa ensayo, tapos ginawa namin sa actual game,” added Castrodes, who flirted with a triple-double with 15 points, nine digs and nine receptions.
The Fighting Maroons seek to follow up the win when they face the Ateneo Blue Eagles next Sunday, Feb. 22, at the same venue.
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