Mylene Paat's strong performance in the recently concluded 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference may have fallen short, but her fighting spirit remains alive and well.
As part of the Chery Tiggo team, Paat had the chance to lead her team to the playoffs. However, a tough loss to the Petro Gazz Angels ended their hopes of advancing. Despite the heartbreak, Paat expressed pride in her team's efforts.
"I'm proud of them because we really wanted to win, which makes it even more painful because we gave our all but still ended up losing," said Paat.
Paat, who was the reigning Reinforced Conference Most Valuable Player, believes that Chery Tiggo has all the right tools to compete in the PVL. However, she acknowledged that the team needs to work on their mental toughness in order to get over the hump for the next conference.
"I think the mental toughness of each player in every game should be treated as a championship game," she said.
With the PVL season now over, Paat is setting her sights on the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia. She is part of the initial women's national volleyball team pool that the Philippine National Volleyball Federation released last January.
"For now, I will prioritize the national team. Whatever it takes, I will play for the national team," said Paat.
Paat's dedication and commitment to the sport is something that inspires many young athletes. Despite the challenges and setbacks, Paat continues to push herself to be the best she can be. As she sets her sights on the upcoming SEA Games, there is no doubt that she will continue to be a force to be reckoned with on the court.
