Mark Calado Player of the Week recognition highlights his crucial role in Savouge’s late surge heading into the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference semifinals. The Spin Doctors leaned on his steady production as they built momentum with a four-game winning streak to close the elimination round.

Calado’s consistent presence on offense helped Savouge enter the Final Four with confidence. His recent performances not only stabilized the team but also positioned them as a serious contender in the next phase of the tournament.

Calado fuels Savouge surge into semifinals

The Far Eastern University product delivered key performances in Savouge’s final two wins, earning him the Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week presented by Pilipinas Live for the period of March 24 to 27. His ability to step up in crucial moments proved vital in maintaining the team’s rhythm.

Calado scored 16 points in a hard-fought four-set victory over the AEP-Cabstars, 25-21, 23-25, 25-20, 25-21, on Friday. He followed it up with a 10-point outing in a dominant straight-sets win over VNS Always Bright Laticrete, 25-21, 25-23, 25-20.

His efforts helped Savouge secure back-to-back victories, reinforcing their form heading into the semifinals. Calado edged out teammate JP Bugaoan, along with contenders Alche Gupiteo, Jay Rack De La Noche, and EJ Casana for the weekly honor.

Focus shifts to tougher semifinal battle

Despite the recent success, Calado acknowledged that the team still has areas to improve, especially after suffering two losses to league-leading Criss Cross during the elimination round. He emphasized the need for consistency as competition intensifies in the round-robin semifinals.

“Sa naging campaign namin ngayong elimination, siyempre mahirap din kahit papaano. Pero marami pa talaga kaming kailangang i-improve,” Calado said, pointing to service, passing, and blocking as key areas of focus.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining a high level of play, noting that any drop in performance could be costly in the semifinals where every match carries significant weight. The added pressure, according to Calado, is something the team must embrace and overcome.

Still, Calado remains confident in Savouge’s chances, citing the collective effort and trust within the squad as their biggest strength. He believes that their balanced contributions will be crucial in pushing for a finals berth.

“Confident ako kasi siyempre lahat naman kasi nagko-contribute sa team namin,” he said, highlighting the team’s unity as a driving force.

After missing out on a podium finish in the 2025 Invitational Conference, the Spin Doctors are determined to break through this time. With Calado leading the charge, Savouge aims to turn its semifinal campaign into a championship run.