Alche Gupiteo’s debut with Criss Cross was never meant to be a comfortable one — it was a trial by fire that ultimately ended in championship glory.
Thrust into a significant role right away, the former University of Santo Tomas standout had to make a quick adjustment from a beach volleyball background to the demands of the indoor game in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference. The learning curve was steep, but the support system around him proved just as crucial as his talent.
“Actually, hindi siya madali talaga. Kasi since bata pa ako and bago ako sa kanila, so maraming adjustments and galing din ako sa beach volleyball,” Gupiteo shared. “So siyempre hinelp ako ng teammates ko, coaches, management, ni-lift up din ako nila.”
What could have been an overwhelming transition became manageable through the guidance of teammates who understood the same path he was taking. Veterans within the squad stepped in not just as leaders, but as steady hands during his growing pains.
“Malaki talaga siya (presence ni Jaron) kasi they know kung anong feeling na bumalik from beach volleyball sa indoor,” he said. “Si Kuya Jude (Garcia) din, actually, si Kuya Krung (Arbasto). Step by step nila ako tinulungan, that’s why I’m here right now in front of you.”
But the season did not only test his adjustment — it also tested his durability. A right shoulder injury forced Gupiteo to sit out Game 1 of the Finals, putting his availability in question at the most critical stretch of the conference. He managed to return in Game 2, though far from fully comfortable as Criss Cross absorbed a loss that dragged the series to a do-or-die Game 3.
“Na-injury din kasi ako. Na-help talaga nila ako bumawi ulit,” he said, also acknowledging the people behind the team’s run. “Nagpapasalamat din ako sa mga taong sumusuporta sa amin, sa fans, sa family, ayun.”
In the decisive match, Gupiteo pushed through the lingering pain and delivered when it mattered most. Despite still feeling discomfort in his arm, he battled through a tense finale to help Criss Cross seal a 28-26, 25-17, 26-28, 25-23 victory and clinch the championship.
“Ano siya, actually may kirot pa kasi ‘yung braso ko talaga. Pero luckily, maganda ‘yung laro. I think tinulungan din kami ni God,” he said.
He finished with 12 points and seven excellent digs in Game 3 — a performance that not only highlighted his resilience, but also completed a season defined by adjustment, adversity, and trust.
For Gupiteo, the journey from newcomer to champion came full circle in a way that felt bigger than individual success.
“Para sa akin kasi kung amin, amin talaga.”
