Far Eastern University (FEU) continues to uphold its legacy in men's volleyball with yet another appearance in the Final Four during the most recent season of the UAAP.
This achievement was largely attributed to the impressive performance of then-graduating senior Mark Calado, who played a pivotal role in carrying the Tamaraws through several matches in the tournament.
Now, FEU is faced with the task of identifying the right individual who is willing to step up and fill the shoes left by Calado. The team, however, has identified the ideal candidate.
Opposite Hitter Dryx Saavedra demonstrated his capabilities for the Tamaraws as early as his first game in the previous year's V-League Collegiate Challenge. With Calado's departure and CJ Cabatac still in the process of recovering from an injury, Saavedra has taken it upon himself to shine even brighter in the current season.
"Now that Kuya Mark is no longer here, all of us need to step up. I played last season, so I know within myself that I also need to step up for the team," the left-handed spiker explained.
True to his words, Saavedra stepped up admirably, leading FEU to its first victory of the 2023 season by amassing 25 points through 25 kills against De La Salle University. This accomplishment was achieved despite him being benched during the fourth set.
This particular match became a defining moment for Saavedra as he rebounded and secured the victory for the Tamaraws.
"As we entered the fifth set, I knew I had to muster strength and courage because I was aware that I was one of the players the team relied upon. We adjusted what was lacking in the third set, and that's what we implemented in the fifth set," Saavedra shared.
