Returning from his stint with Alas Pilipinas, Noel Kampton once again finds himself as the driving force behind De La Salle University-EcoOil's campaign in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference. But Kampton’s journey back to a starting role wasn’t as straightforward as expected.
The 6-foot-2 outside spiker had missed most of the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge, only rejoining La Salle for the Finals series against Far Eastern University. In his absence, the Green Spikers had forged their path to the Finals, showing grit and resilience despite ultimately yielding the title to FEU.
Now, back with La Salle-EcoOil, Kampton revealed that regaining his place in the starting lineup wasn’t automatic. “Siguro yung confidence nila tumaas talaga kasi nung V-League wala kaming tatlo ni Vince Maglinao at Del Pilar eh,” Kampton reflected.
With these young players stepping up, head coach Jose Roque challenged Kampton and the other veterans to compete for their roles upon their return. “So pagbalik namin, chinallenge kami ni coach Jose Roque na kailangan naming lumaban para sa pwesto namin sa first six ulit kasi sila talaga yung magandang sistema eh,” Kampton explained.
Kampton's leadership and offensive firepower have since played a pivotal role in La Salle-EcoOil’s undefeated run, with three straight victories so far in the Spikers’ Turf. His standout performance came in their recent match against D’Navigators-Iloilo, where he led the Green Oilers with a commanding 14-point display at the Ynares Sports Arena.
Despite La Salle’s young roster in the Spikers’ Turf, Kampton believes these experiences will serve as a valuable stepping stone toward the ultimate goal: a successful UAAP season. “Yung goal lang talaga namin is makapasok muna kami sa Final Four sa Spikers’ Turf,” Kampton said.
Competing against seasoned teams in the Spikers’ Turf has been an eye-opener for the Green Oilers. “Yung mga kalaban namin dito beterano na talaga, magagaling talaga sila and we look up to them talaga, sila yung mga idol namin eh,” Kampton shared. “Itatry din namin makipagsabayan, wala namang masama win or lose basta makita lang yung process sa paparating na UAAP.”
