Madzilla is the captain now.
Middle blocker Maddie Madayag is the new captain of the Choco Mucho Flying Titans' ship, but she's aware the leadership role will not come as easily as say, swatting a ball at the net.
She has stepped up to the captain role, after longtime leader Bea de Leon chose to play for sister team Creamline Cool Smashers.
[ALSO READ: PVL | Bea De Leon bares heart in move to Creamline: ‘I feel like I need to grow again’]
"Sobrang iba ng feeling, kasi all this time, kami 'yung magkakasama. It's gonna be different playing against her, very excited," Madayag told reporters during the PVL Media Day.
"Iba din 'yung kultura nila as a team. We will see kung ma-aadapt niya 'yung good vibes."
Madayag knows it's not gonna be easy filling BDL's shoes, but she's keeping herself humble in the process.
She has to guide four recruits too in Royse Tubino, Mars Alba, Mean Mendrez, and Bia General.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Why Choco Mucho recruits look up to Sisi Rondina]
"Bagong set of people na 'yung ili-lead ko. Right now, I'm earning their respect. Gusto ko munang makita nila na deserving din na respetuhin ako as a leader," Madayag said.
"So far, it's a challenge, but I'm willing to accept the challenge. 'Yun 'yung binigay ng coaches sa 'kin. Binigyan din nila ako ng trust dahil ako 'yung pinili nilang maging leader sa team."
But who is Captain Maddie exactly?
"Siguro, in terms of inside the court, I just want them to see... ako as a player, ayokong bumitaw hangga't di pa umaabot sa 25 points, sa mtach point," she shared to One Sports in a separate interview after training.
"Gusto kong ma-share sa teammates 'yung fighting spirit na nabuo since college pa lang."
The Choco Mucho Flying Titans had their best performance in the PVL during the 2023 Second All-Filipino Conference, earning their first silver medal. So the pressure is on for the ube girls to reach the podium again this season.
But right now, Madayag's personal goals are a little bit closer to heart. She has to show she can lead first.
"Ang goal ko is to be a good leader for the team," she shared.
If this sass is any indication, Madzilla will be able to lead just fine.
(With reports from Lei Macaranas, One Sports)