friday night marked the commencement of a redemption journey for head coach Sammy Acaylar, as he led Savouge Aesthetics to a resounding victory over VNS-Nasty in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.
After a lackluster stint with Gerflor in the Premier Volleyball League just three months prior, Acaylar was determined to turn the tides. His tenure with Gerflor ended without a single win, a stark disappointment for the decorated tactician who has built a formidable reputation in the volleyball scene. The team's struggles were compounded by off-court issues, including a PVL investigation into salary disputes.
Reflecting on his turbulent past, Acaylar acknowledged the setbacks but remained resolute in his determination to move forward. "At least hindi ko naramdaman sa kanila yung opening jitters eh. Sinasabi ko sa kanila na hangga't maaari, walang opening jitters," he emphasized, urging his new team to deliver their best performance in the Spikers’ Turf.
The seasoned coach admitted that the Gerflor experience served as a humbling wake-up call, highlighting areas where he could further develop despite his extensive coaching pedigree. "Sobrang na-disappoint ako kasi syempre kilala akong coach tapos wala ‘man lang panalo yung team ko sa Gerflor, but I have to accept that. Ibig sabihin, marami pa akong kulang as a coach," Acaylar candidly confessed.
Now at the helm of Savouge Aesthetics, Acaylar is determined to prove his mettle once again. "Hindi ko sinisisi sa mga players ko or management, sinisi ko sa sarili ko. Maaring may kulang ako kaya nung na-absorb ako ng Savouge, pakikita ko ulit na I’m coach Sam," he asserted, eager to showcase his coaching prowess and lead his new team to success.
As Acaylar embarks on this redemption tour with Savouge Aesthetics, the volleyball world watches with anticipation, curious to witness the resurgence of a coach whose passion for the sport burns brighter than ever.
