Cignal entered the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference boasting a trio of elite setters, a luxury unmatched by any other team in the league. But even with such a wealth of talent, finding harmony among the playmakers proved challenging at first.
Now, with the semifinals fast approaching, head coach Dexter Clamor is starting to see the fruits of their hard work.
Initially, Cignal faced hurdles adjusting to the varying tempos and styles of its three setters: Owa Retamar, EJ Casaña, and Cian Silang. Each has an impressive resume, but integrating them into a cohesive system required time and patience.
“Nung una, very challenging kasi nahihirapan ‘yung mga spikers mag-adjust. Kasi kapag paiba-iba ‘yung setter, iba-iba ‘yung tempo, iba-iba ‘yung tapon. But ngayon nakikita ko na sila ng good connection kahit sinong setter ang gamitin,” shared Clamor, a seasoned tactician with four Spikers’ Turf titles to his name.
Among the setters, Retamar has quickly established himself as the frontrunner. Widely regarded as the country’s best setter, the former National University standout joined Cignal during the offseason. His accolades include multiple championships in both the UAAP and Spikers’ Turf, as well as a regular spot on the Alas Pilipinas national team.
Meanwhile, Silang, the reigning Open Conference Best Setter, has consistently delivered in crucial moments. Casaña, a key figure in Cignal’s 2023 title run, provides reliable backup and a wealth of experience.
“It’s good that I have the best setters. Actually si Cian [Silang], best setter siya nung nakaraang liga. Tapos si EJ also best setter din. Now I have the best setter in the UAAP, ‘di ba? So very talented ‘yung mga setters ko,” said Clamor, beaming with pride over his playmaking arsenal.
Retamar’s transition to the starting role, with Casaña stepping into a supporting position, seems to have solidified the HD Spikers’ system. But for Clamor, the job isn’t done yet.
“Meron na silang polished [connection], pero ‘di pa rin kami nasa-satisfy. Kailangan lahat ng galaw kung pwede perfect. Again, nung una challenging but now nakukuha na namin ‘yung rhythm ng bawat isa,” Clamor explained.
As the semifinals loom, Cignal will need their setters operating at peak efficiency to navigate the challenges posed by formidable opponents Criss Cross, FEU-DN Steel, Savouge, and an international guest team.
Despite the earlier struggles, Clamor is confident that his team is now equipped to execute at the highest level, with the setters serving as the linchpin of their campaign.
“Iba-iba ‘yung setter pero now, kahit sino sa kanila gamitin ko, alam kong kaya nilang i-deliver. Yun ang pinaka-importante,” Clamor concluded.
With a refined rhythm and a trio of brilliant playmakers ready to shine, the HD Spikers are primed for the battles ahead.
