The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers may have stumbled out of the gate in the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge, but amidst the early challenges, a new star has emerged—rookie sensation JJ Macam.
In their first two games, UST suffered back-to-back losses, falling to Far Eastern University and De La Salle University.
However, the España-based squad found a silver lining in the impressive debut of Macam, who has quickly proven that he’s more than ready for the collegiate stage.
The former University of the East Junior Warrior has racked up 31 points in his first two outings, with a standout 14-point performance against reigning UAAP champion National University.
This breakout game not only showcased Macam’s potential but also helped UST secure its first victory of the tournament.
UST head coach Odjie Mamon, along with seasoned players like outside hitters Gboy de Vega and team captain Dux Yambao, have played pivotal roles in guiding Macam through his transition to collegiate volleyball.
The young spiker has shown gratitude for the support he’s received from his teammates and coaches, saying, “Ginagabayan din ako ng teammates ko, sila kuya Gboy at Dux, tsaka ng coaches ko at tsaka ni Lord.”
Macam’s confidence in his ability to compete at the collegiate level is evident.
“Alam ko naman na makikipagsabayan ako sa players dito [sa college], kaya kailangan ko lang maghustle nang maghustle,” he added.
Despite the rocky start, Macam’s leadership qualities have already begun to surface. Following their initial losses, the rookie was quick to uplift his teammates, encouraging them to remain focused and motivated.
This resilience paid off as the Golden Spikers finally broke their losing streak by defeating the Bulldogs—marking their first win over NU since their second-round encounter in UAAP Season 86.
“Pinasok lang po namin sa isip namin na kahit 0-2 yung standing namin, laban pa rin nang laban, hindi pa naman tapos yung liga… Talagang pinagdadasalan namin makuha yung unang panalo namin, and ayon God’s will, nakuha naman namin,” shared Macam, who hails from Marikina City.
For Coach Mamon, Macam’s early success is just the beginning.
The veteran coach believes that the rookie still has a long way to go before reaching his full potential, a sentiment that he extends to the rest of UST’s young talent.
“We expect a lot more from this rookie class… This tournament is really for the rookies,” Mamon noted, emphasizing the importance of the V-League as a developmental stage for the team’s newcomers.
Alongside Macam, other promising rookies like opposite spiker Al-Bukharie Sali and libero Edriel Alabar are also being groomed to make significant contributions to the Golden Spikers.
