On the storm-lashed streets of Parañaque, the Savouge Spin Doctors pushed through the relentless wind and rain brought by Tropical Storm Kristine to prepare for their toughest challenge yet: a high-stakes faceoff against the formidable Cignal HD Spikers.
This unyielding dedication to training paid dividends on Friday evening as Savouge pulled off an exhilarating upset, beating the HD Spikers 19-25, 27-25, 19-25, 25-23, 15-13. Their hard-fought victory secured their undefeated streak in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference and sent a clear message—they’re not just here to participate; they’re here to contend.
Facing off against the winningest team in Spikers’ Turf history was no easy task. With a loaded lineup and high expectations, Cignal was the clear favorite heading into the match. But the Spin Doctors had prepared for this, practicing amid the storm at Azure Urban Resort Residences under the steely guidance of head coach and team owner Sydney Calderon.
“Yesterday kahit bagyo talagang pinilit namin mag training kasi sabi ko we have to prepare kasi syempre big respect talaga kay Cignal,” Calderon shared after their triumphant match.
This determination epitomizes Savouge’s mission this season: to go beyond mere participation and prove themselves as genuine challengers in a competitive field. Since their debut in the 2023 Invitational Conference, Calderon has emphasized the need to evolve from newcomers to contenders.
“Yun nga sabi ko sa team ko before hindi pwedeng sali lang tayo nang sali, dapat manalo rin tayo,” Calderon recalled. “I think iisa kami lahat ng goal ngayong season na ito which is try lang namin makapasok sa top four and who knows baka pagdating namin doon iba na ang scenario.”
For Savouge, defeating Cignal was more than just another win—it was a breakthrough. This victory vaulted them into the “title contenders” tier, proving that they can stand toe-to-toe with the league’s elite. Yet Calderon remains level-headed, aware that there’s more work to be done in the journey ahead.
With a 3-0 record, Savouge will now enjoy a well-earned break before returning to action on November 6 against Chichi DHTSI at the Philsports Arena. Calderon, however, isn’t letting this win go to their heads. She continues to instill in her players a focus on steady improvement and strategic preparation for each game.
“Hindi pa kami masyadong kampante na ‘title contender’ ang ginagawa lang namin ay pinag-aaralan namin kung sino yung kalaban namin,” she said. “Sabi ko nga sa team one game at a time tayo, huwag nating isipin agad na dumating tayo agad sa championship, syempre bago tayo makarating doon kailangan pagtrabahuhan.”
