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One of the most decorated Filipino coaches is happy to finally play under the Philippine flag.
After bringing international glory to Malaysia multiple times, Coach Arcadia is finally getting his chance to represent the Philippines in the 2026 Asian Games. Michael “Arcadia” Bocado is excited to be part of SIBOL’s star-studded MLBB coaching staff, especially since he’s been trying to get in for a long time.
“Ever since naging foreign coach ako, ever since nagkaroon ng qualifiers, I’ve wanted to coach for SIBOL,” said Coach Arcadia. “I’ve even tried asking certain teams to accept me as their coach. Pero I understand naman na dahil may qualifiers, there’s a certain process. It’s been very challenging for me professionally even though contractually, there’s no problem. It lessened my opportunities to make it to the national team.”
Every member of SIBOL, from players to coaches, need to go through a qualifier if they want a chance to be chosen for the national team. Coaches need to be coaching an all-Filipino team, which is difficult for someone in coach Acadia’s position. At least now he finally has his chance.
“It’s been on my bucket list even nung bata pa ako. Looking at the athletes – seeing them play their sport while carrying the Philippine flag – it’s very surreal to be a part of it. That’s why I’m very thankful na nagkaroon ako ng chance to be a part of this team. I’m really excited to be in this role and we’re going to do our best to get the gold.”
All About Chemistry
“When it comes to working with other coaches, yung pinaka-advantage ko is I can blend in,” said Coach Arcadia. “Kasi minsan, let’s say you are a very good individual who’s also working with other good individuals. Sometimes, magca-clash kayo ng mga ideas and ilalaban mo yung ideas mo to a point na gumugulo yung structure ng team. With my previous experiences as a coach, kaya ko mag-adapt to whatever situation I’m in. ‘Yun siguro yung greatest strength ko.”
As a foreign coach who’s also had to work with players of different cultures, Coach Arcadia is well versed in this field. Ideally, it should be easier to get a handle of the national team since they’re all Filipino. But getting players to synergies is never guaranteed, even when a gold medal is on the line. It’s a key component in every successful team and we’re lucky to have coach Arcadia for that.
“It’s about chemistry, knowing how players think, and helping them play their game.”
Banner image from Esports World Cup via X.
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