In a tense showdown against rivals Criss Cross during the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, Martin Bugaoan emerged as an unlikely hero for the Cignal HD Spikers.
With the weight of the match resting heavily on his shoulders, Martin stepped up in a moment of adversity when his older brother, JP Bugaoan, was forced to the sidelines due to severe cramps.
As the fifth set unfolded, the tension escalated when JP, the team's captain, collapsed on the court after a service attempt.
Pain etched across his face, he was swiftly attended to by medical staff and subsequently transported to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and IV fluids.
While the loss of his brother was a heavy blow, Martin knew he had to rally for the team.
“May konti na parang pinanghihinaan ako ng loob kasi kuya ko ‘yun eh,” Martin admitted, reflecting on the initial shock of the situation. “Medyo ‘yung focus ko hindi masyado nakatuon sa game nung una, pero nung nandun na ako, nakakapag-deliver na ako, doon ko nakuha ‘yung one hundred percent na focus ko sa game.”
With determination ignited within him, Martin took to the court, channeling the intensity of the moment into his performance.
His presence was immediately felt as he leaped high for a decisive block against Criss Cross's Jude Garcia, propelling the HD Spikers to a 12-8 lead.
In a crucial series of plays, Martin delivered a swift hit that brought Cignal to match point before Mark Calado sealed the deal with the final play.
Cignal’s victory was hard-fought, with a final score of 25-21, 25-21, 25-27, 18-25, 15-11, improving their win-loss record to 3-1.
“Nung nag-cramps siya, ang nasa mindset ko parang ako kasi gustong-gusto ko rin pumasok. Wala akong pressure na naramdaman nung ako ‘yung pinasok kasi ang nasa isip ko mag-perform at ibigay ‘yung best ko,” said Martin, emphasizing his eagerness to contribute.
This moment was not just about seizing an opportunity; it was also about honoring the bond between brothers. Martin expressed profound gratitude to the coaching staff for placing their trust in him during this pivotal moment.
“Satisfying po ‘yung feeling kasi ‘yun nga, pinagkakatiwalaan din ako ng coaches. Since nag-cramps ‘yung isang Bugaoan, ako ‘yung pinasok. Ang nasa mindset ko lang is gagawin ko ‘yung best ko, mag-all out lang sa laro.”
