Without a doubt, Sherwin Caritativo emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
The unheralded Caritativo rose from obscurity and played a pivotal role in leading Savouge to its first-ever podium finish in just its second conference in the league organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
His outstanding performance earned him the Second Best Outside Hitter award, a testament to his impact and significant improvement that helped the Spin Doctors rebound from a fifth-place finish in the Open Conference.
“Hindi ko inexpect na magkaka-award ako ngayong season na ‘to. Na-overwhelm ako na nagka-award ako, nagulat na lang talaga ako," said Caritativo, the pride of Rosales, Pangasinan, who was visibly surprised upon receiving the award.
The former Perpetual commit shone brightest in the Spin Doctors’ dream 4-0 start to the tournament, highlighted by a stunning five-set victory against eventual champion Cignal. In that match, Caritativo delivered a game-high 19 points, helping Savouge pull off a thrilling 19-25, 27-25, 19-25, 25-23, 15-13 win.
Caritativo continued his stellar play later in the eliminations, tallying 16 points, 10 excellent receptions, and five digs to lift Savouge past La Salle-EcoOil and into the semifinals.
In the round-robin semifinals, Caritativo averaged 13.75 points per game, leading the Spin Doctors to crucial victories over Hyogo and FEU-DN Steel to secure a spot in the bronze-medal match. There, he capped off his breakout campaign with a team-high 14 points, propelling Savouge to a four-set triumph over the Ultras and securing third place.
"Na-showcase ko yung talent ko dahil kay God, mga coaches ko kasi hiram lang tong ano, skills ko talaga," Caritativo humbly remarked, crediting his success to his faith and his mentors.
With their bronze-medal finish serving as motivation, Caritativo and the Spin Doctors now have their sights set on even greater achievements, determined to claim the championship in the next season.
"Siguro next season, magdodouble time kami sa training namin at tsaka makamit namin ang kampyonato," said Caritativo, expressing his resolve to elevate the team’s performance and reach the pinnacle of success.
