After missing most of the previous conference due to a Grade 2 left ankle sprain, Steven Rotter is back at full strength and determined to make up for lost time with defending champion Cignal HD Spikers.
“I’m super eager. I’m trying to be the Player of the Game each time. I’m on a mission to give my all—maybe even set some records, who knows? But I’m just happy to be back on the court,” said the 26-year-old Fil-American spiker.
Rotter wasted no time proving he was in peak condition, leading Cignal to a dominant 25-15, 25-16, 25-23 opening-day victory over newcomers Alpha Insurance on Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The 6-foot-6 opposite hitter topped all scorers with 11 points, tallying five attacks, four aces, and two blocks. His strong performance was crucial in filling the void left by Louie Ramirez, who remains sidelined with a nagging shoulder injury.
“It was a good start, but we know a lot of teams are hungry to dethrone us. I just want to give my all every game, one hundred percent. I’m happy we got the win, and I’m glad my performance contributed to it,” Rotter added.
Rotter spent most of the season-ending Invitational Conference on the sidelines before seeing limited action in the latter stages, ultimately helping the HD Spikers clinch the title. Now, his focus is on staying healthy and becoming a key contributor in Cignal’s pursuit of its first-ever three-peat.
“I was out for the entire conference until the playoffs. Coach didn’t fully trust me until the championship game. So, I’m hoping—knock on wood—that I stay injury-free, and my teammates as well. Hopefully, we’re all healthy when the playoffs come,” he said.
Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor praised Rotter’s dedication to regaining full fitness, emphasizing that his increased playing time is a testament to his hard work.
“When he arrived in the Philippines last year, he was in great shape. Unfortunately, he got injured. But now, he’s getting more minutes because of the effort he puts in during training,” said Clamor, a five-time Spikers’ Turf champion coach.
“As long as you work hard in training, I’ll give you more time on the court,” he added.
