Savouge’s journey from underdog to contender continues to unfold like a feel-good sports movie. After surprising the field with a semifinal appearance in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, the Spin Doctors have proved they belong by clinching another Final Four spot in the ongoing 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.
Their latest victory, a dominant 25-12, 25-21, 25-21 win over Alpha Insurance on Friday, sealed their second straight semifinals berth, sending a clear message to the rest of the league: Savouge is no fluke.
For head coach Sydney Calderon, this achievement validates her team’s growth and resilience.
“I just want to send a statement to other teams na don’t count us out. Nandito kami and kapag bumigay sila, nandito ang Savouge ready anytime,” Calderon declared.
The Spin Doctors have carved out a solid 5-3 record this conference, yet their victories have mostly come against teams in the lower half of the standings. Despite that, Calderon draws pride from how Savouge pushed perennial powerhouses Cignal and Criss Cross to the brink.
Savouge led Criss Cross two sets to one in their first-round encounter before faltering, 25-22, 15-25, 25-23, 18-25, 7-15. History repeated itself when they forced Cignal to five sets in the second round before bowing, 25-27, 25-20, 30-28, 22-25, 13-15.
“Sabi ko sa team kasi namin kaya namin ‘yung Criss Cross at saka Cignal eh kasi nadala namin sila hanggang fifth set. Yung closing lang talaga namin, yung dulo lang talaga, yung endgame lang talaga yung kulang namin,” Calderon admitted.
On Sunday, Savouge will get another shot at redemption as they face Criss Cross anew at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. Calderon hopes her team has learned the crucial lessons needed to close out tight matches.
Adding firepower to their campaign are newcomers Mark Calado and Madz Gampong, whose experience from playing with title-winning teams has bolstered Savouge's competitive edge.
“Actually malaki rin ang contribution ni Madz saka ni Mark sa team namin kasi pagdating sa patibayan ng loob, pagdating sa mga ganitong laro more experienced sila sa mga ganito coming from a champion team like Cignal,” said Calderon.
With renewed confidence, improved chemistry, and valuable reinforcements, Savouge is determined to take the next step: a Finals appearance that once seemed improbable.
