At the start of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, Kenneth Daynata was just another name on the VNS Griffins’ roster—a largely unheralded 5-foot-9 outside spiker trying to find his place in a team rebuilding with young talent.
But after a rocky start, Daynata has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Griffins’ fight for a semifinal spot, delivering two clutch performances to keep their season alive.
The Griffins, reeling from three straight losses, rediscovered their form with back-to-back wins against Chichi DHTSI and the veteran-heavy D’Navigators Iloilo. These victories brought VNS to a 3-4 record, reviving their playoff chances as the elimination round reaches its climax.
For Daynata, finding his groove in VNS's system was no easy task. Adjusting to a new environment and play style tested his resilience, but the 23-year-old’s perseverance paid off when it mattered most.
“Syempre, sobrang hirap din kasi bagong system ‘yung na-encounter ko sa VNS. I’m so happy naman po kasi kahit sobrang nahihirapan po ako mag-adjust doon sa bagong system, yet nakuha ko pa rin and na-establish ko pa rin ‘yung sarili ko,” Daynata said, reflecting on his journey.
“[Nakuha] ko pa rin ‘yung mga dapat kong matutunan and ma-attain sa system namin and sa goal ng team. Sobrang challenging but at the same time, sobrang worth it naman kasi sobrang pinagpaguran ko rin,” he added.
Daynata proved his worth in a straight-sets victory over the Titans, scoring 10 points. He followed it up with a season-best 18-point explosion in a four-set win against D’Navigators Iloilo, contributing 12 attacks, five blocks, an ace, 10 excellent receptions, and five digs. It was a performance that showcased his all-around ability and leadership on the court.
As one of the oldest players on the roster, Daynata has embraced a mentor role for his younger teammates, who have shown remarkable growth throughout the tournament.
“Sabi nga sa lahat ng teams, sa’min ‘yung maraming bata. Siguro ang nakakatuwa lang din po sa mga bata, nakikipag-cooperate sila sa mga seniors, and at the same time, kapag nakikipag-cooperate sila, they are doing their roles din as a player, as a mature player,” said Daynata, a former standout at Jose Rizal University.
“Lagi lang po namin silang gina-guide and nire-remind sa mga dapat gawin nila, and lagi rin naming sinasabi na this Spikers’ Turf is not just a league. Ito ‘yung big exposure para sa kanila para sa future nila—mas bongga pa sila,” he added, highlighting the developmental opportunities the tournament provides for emerging talents.
The Griffins’ performance has also drawn praise from head coach Ralph Ocampo, who initially tempered expectations for the team. With a roster packed with rookies, merely participating in the tournament was seen as a stepping stone. However, the team’s recent successes against formidable opponents have exceeded all projections.
“Actually, we’re just expecting to participate kasi nga pinasok namin ‘yung mga bata,” said Ocampo. “Now, we’ve exceeded ‘yung expectations namin. Nakatalo kami ng isang malaking club team na mga veteran ‘yung players. Masaya, masaya siya for our team.”
Ocampo, known for developing talents such as Yoyong Mendoza (La Salle), Kevin Montemayor (San Beda), Jan Mangulabnan (Ateneo), and Barbie San Andres (Mapua), continues to prioritize the long-term growth of his players. The Griffins’ campaign may be an uphill battle, but the lessons learned on the court will resonate far beyond this season.
