10 Things to Know About FilAm Pro Volleyball Player Kalei Mau
When we think about passionate Filipino Americans, Kalei Mau is one of the first people that come to mind. From conquering arenas internationally through her volleyball skills to populating the world with beautiful original music, there is no stopping this powerful Pinay. Here are some fun facts about her to get to know her better!
1. She grew up in Hawaii.
Kalei grew up on the beautiful island of Kahalu'u in Hawaii. Her island spirit is something she has kept with her throughout her whole life. Even when she is far away from home, she stands firm in her roots and finds joy sharing her culture with those around her through her music and in everything that she does.
2. She made history as a college athlete.
Kalei started her college journey at The University of Minnesota before transferring over to The University of Arizona. Her transfer sparked a flame in her and brought a fruitful college career. Throughout her time on the team, she raked in a long list of awards and recognitions. One award included being named a third-team AVCA All-American, which made her the 10th All-American in Arizona history. She was also cited as one of 12 Players to Watch by ESPNW, was named an all-Pac-12 and all-region performer and surpassed 1,000 career kills in her final match with the school. These are just some of the many great things Kalei was able to achieve in her college years.
3. She has played professional volleyball all over the world.
Kalei’s love for volleyball has brought her across the globe to play professionally. Throughout her career, she has played in countries like Puerto Rico for Indias de Mayagüez, in France for Volley-Ball Nantes, and in the Philippines where she won championships with the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers. In the motherland, Kalei rose to stardom in the Philippine Superliga where she was dubbed by many as one of the top players in the country. Supporters traveled from far and wide to watch Kalei in action.
4. She has a beautiful voice on top of her volleyball skills.
Kalei has the voice of an angel. From an early age, she has had a passion for singing and sharing it with the world. Her Youtube channel is filled with videos of young Kalei covering songs, dating back to over 14 years ago. She has since ventured on to create her own original music, which can be found on all digital outlets (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.). Her hits include Island Home, Happy Sad, and Dying to be Loved (featuring Ji). Go listen to them now!
5. She knows how to work the cameras.
Volleyball courts and concert stages aren’t the only places Kalei shines bright. She sure knows how to slay the runway. In this year’s Hawaii Swim Show, she walked multiple shows in jaw dropping-ly beautiful swim pieces from various brands and designers. Off the runway, one can easily see that Kalei is a natural for the camera from her personal and brand endorsement shoots which populate the internet. Whether she’s rocking her fits for fashion brands or posing on the beach, she brings her A-game every time and allows photographers to capture beautiful images of her.
6. She is NFL star Jahlani Tavai’s biggest cheerleader.
Kalei is romantically linked to professional football player, New England Patriot, Jahlani Tavai. This dynamic duo is seen regularly on her Instagram page traveling, wearing matching outfits and making memories with each other. Kalei is oftentimes spotted rocking his #48 jerseys at arenas across the country, among the Patriots superfans and family.
7. She practically lives at the beach.
It is no secret that Kalei is a waterbaby. When she isn’t conquering volleyball courts across the globe, you can almost always find her at the beach. Here she is in her element, with a big smile on her face, enjoying the ocean and the beauty it offers.
8. She coaches and empowers others to live a healthy lifestyle.
Through her Kaleihulu Health work, Kalei aims to guide and encourage others to achieve their best selves through balance and healthy living. Here, she shares workouts that anyone can do at home with minimal equipment and weights. She also shares recipes on how to make healthy snacks and meals such as banana oat pancakes, peanut butter energy bites, air-fryer Korean cauliflower wings, and so much more! Check out https://www.kaleihulu.com/ for more information.
9. She is a fashion queen.
Kalei is always one to show up and show out. Her unique style and collection of cool outfits. Here are just some of our favorites looks!
10. She is currently enrolled as Harvard Business School student.
On August 18, 2023, Kalei announced that she’d be embarking on yet another exciting journey… studying none other than Harvard Business School! The decision to enrich herself further has inspired us so much and we can’t wait to see her thrive with the knowledge she gains from her return to the classroom.
Written By Nico Belasco
Photographer, Writer, Speaker, Podcast Host, Creative
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