In the realm of Philippine men’s volleyball, the Spikers’ Turf sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated showdown between the seasoned Cignal side and the newly-formed Criss Cross squad.
While the two teams have yet to face each other on the court, the brewing rivalry between these powerhouse teams is already generating considerable excitement among fans, touted as the next big thing in men’s volley in the country.
Multi-titled Cignal has secured the services of Bryan Bagunas, who boasts of experience as an import in Japan and Taiwan leagues. Criss Cross, on the other hand, will be led by former Cignal standout Marck Espejo, known for making his mark in various international leagues, including Japan, Thailand, Bahrain and South Korea.
During the recent league inaugural press conference at Discovery Suites Ortigas, Cignal skipper Wendel Miguel hinted at the prospect of this upcoming rivalry, emphasizing how it could elevate the popularity of the league.
This heightened visibility, Miguel believes, will contribute to a greater recognition and appreciation for men’s volleyball in a country traditionally focused on the flourishing women’s volley scene.
Miguel expressed excitement for the rivalry, saying: “Actually, mas maganda nga yun eh. Kahit hindi Criss Cross, kahit yung ibang mga teams. Kung sa Criss Cross lang, mas maganda rin yung ganong rivalry para mas tumaas pa yung fanbase ng men’s volleyball kasi yun naman talaga hinihiling ng bawat manlalaro ng men’s volleyball eh, yung tumaas o makita ng mga tao na masarap din manood ng men’s volleyball."
Cignal has historically considered the Air Force team as its rival. But with the emergence of Criss Cross, a Rebisco team, new dynamics and excitement are anticipated.
Criss Cross captain Ysay Marasigan acknowledged the expectations surrounding the potential rivalry but highlighted the challenge of facing a well-established team like Cignal.
Marasigan also recognized the difficulty in beating Cignal due to their existing chemistry, developed through years of competition. In contrast, Criss Cross, formed just a couple of months ago, faces the uphill task of establishing cohesion quickly.
"Actually, natutuwa ako kasi yun yung expectation ng mga tao na kapag nagharap yung Cignal at Criss Cross magiging magandang laban happy ako doon," said Marasigan.
Still, Espejo and Marasigan will be backstopped by fellow former HD Spikers, including Manuel Sumanguid, Chu Njigha, and Geuel Asia, all members of last year’s Open Conference champion team.
"For sure naman wala naman kaming ini-expect na matatalo namin ang Cignal kasi kakabuo lang ng team, almost two months pa lang kaming nagtitraining tapos ang Cignal kahit umalis naman kami yung mga core players nandoon pa rin mostly yung mga players so mas buo pa rin sila and mahirap talunin talaga yung isang buong team," he added.
Completing the nine-team cast are D’Navigators, Maverick, PGJC-Navy, Philippine Air Force, RichMarc Sports, Savouge Aesthetics and VNS Nasty.
The league ushers in its new season on Wednesday, March 13, with games to be held not only at Paco Arena in Manila but also at the bigger Philsports Arena, Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Ynares Sports Arena Pasig, and Santa Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.
