Jaron Requinton found himself in a golden opportunity—one that doesn’t come often. With Criss Cross making its much-anticipated debut in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, the 6-foot-2 outside hitter was thrust into the spotlight against VNS-Laticrete, stepping in for the team’s usual starter, Nico Almendras.
And he did not disappoint.
Seizing his moment, Requinton delivered a commanding performance that powered the King Crunchers to a dominant 25-19, 25-12, 25-22 sweep of the Griffins last Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
“Naging okay naman ‘yung performance namin sa loob ng court since wala si Nico (Almendras). So ‘yung pag-sub ko sa kanya, naging okay naman. Meron naman kaming gel ng first six kaya siguro naging ganun ‘yung resulta ng game,” he said, reflecting on his unexpected yet seamless integration into the starting unit.
With Almendras given time to rest after tying the knot with longtime partner Justine Pesigan just a day prior, Requinton knew he had big shoes to fill. He responded with his best outing in a Criss Cross jersey—racking up 15 points built on 12 attacks, three blocks, and five excellent receptions.
For the Philippine beach volleyball team stalwart, the match was more than just about stepping up—it was about proving he was always ready for the moment.
“This is a one-time big-time shot for me na makapaglaro sa loob ng court ng buong three sets kaya kinuha ko na rin ‘yung opportunity na ‘yun,” said Requinton.
“In-enjoy ko lang din po ‘yung time ko sa loob ng court since ‘di naman ako palaging starter. Ang mindset ko lang talaga is kung anong maco-contribute ko sa loob ng court, kung anong maco-contribute ko sa teammates ko, ‘yun ‘yung ipapakita ko,” he added.
What made his breakout performance even more special was the overwhelming support from his teammates. As he walked over for his post-game interview after being named Player of the Game, the entire Criss Cross squad erupted in cheers—a testament to the camaraderie that fueled his rise.
“Ayun, thankful talaga ako. Kung nakita niyo po kanina, (grabe) ‘yung support nila sa akin. Ganun ‘yung mga nangyayari (kahit) sa training namin,” Requinton shared, appreciating the encouragement from his fellow King Crunchers.
“Actually, tinulungan ako ng mga teammates ko and mga coaches ko kung paano i-prepare ‘yung sarili ko sa loob ng court and kung paano i-ready ‘yung utak ko at ‘yung puso ko na ako ‘yung maglalaro talaga this game,” he added.
Now, with a Player of the Game honor under his belt, Requinton is determined to keep pushing forward. The milestone only fueled his hunger to improve, ensuring he stays ready for any opportunity that comes his way.
“Para sa akin, sobrang laking bagay since first time kong maging POG, parang ang sarap pala sa feeling na makuha ‘yun,” said the Southeast Asian Games bronze medalist.
“Parang you’re eager to do more para maging POG ka ulit next game and syempre, doon pa rin tayo sa focus na manalo every game, hindi doon sa maging POG ka. Parang bonus na lang ‘yun as a player eh, ang main goal talaga is manalo every game.”
