Jovelyn Gonzaga/INQUIRER File Photo
For Jovelyn Gonzaga, leadership requires “just the right mix.”
Gonzaga is the team captain of the Philippine women’s volleyball team which will represent the Three Stars and a Sun in the Singapore Southeast Asian Games after a 10-year absence.
READ: ‘Happy’ atmosphere envelopes PH women’s volley team days before SEAG
“Sakto lang,” [just right] the 23-year-old Gonzaga said. “Not too chill and not too strict.”
Gonzaga is not the oldest in the team as that the distinction goes to Rachel Ann Daquis and reserve player Aiza Maizo-Pontillas who are both 27-years-old.
READ: Rachel Ann Daquis all set to fulfill a dream
But Gonzaga has earned the trust of head coach Roger Gorayeb to give her the position.
Gonzaga said she always makes it a priority to remind her teammates of their responsibilities on and off the court.
“Maybe the things that need some work, I always remind my teammates of it,” Gonzaga said. “It’s my responsibility and their responsibility.”
READ: ‘Happy’ atmosphere envelopes PH women’s volley team days before SEAG
For a first-timer in Singapore, Gonzaga said she is excited for both the Games and the city state.
“I’ve never been to Singapore and I’ve heard great things said about it so I’m excited for it, and of course I’m excited for the Games,” Gonzaga said.
“For the Games, it’s the first time in 10 years the Philippines has a women’s volleyball contingent and we don’t have expectations. We’ll try to improve everyday once we get to the tournament.” CC