They may not always be the flashiest squad on the court, but VNS has long stood for something far deeper than wins and trophies — opportunity.
In a league teeming with collegiate powerhouses and seasoned pros, the Griffins have carved their own identity in the Spikers’ Turf as a home for dreamers — a place where raw talent meets second chances, and where every player, young or old, finds a stage to grow.
“Actually sabi ko nga, kausap ko kanina si coach Mike (Santos), ‘yung VNS ‘yun ‘yung parang marami kaming players na nagsa-start sa’min ‘yung mga bata, and then ‘yung mga terminal ‘yung mga patapos,” shared head coach Ralph Ocampo, who once donned the VNS jersey before taking charge from the sidelines.
That philosophy — balancing youth and experience — has become the lifeblood of the program.
From its early days, VNS has been a launchpad for future stars. Among its most notable alumni is Peng Taguibolos, who rose from the Griffins’ ranks to power National University to back-to-back UAAP titles, before representing Alas Pilipinas Men at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
And he’s not alone. Over the years, players like Yoyong Mendoza (La Salle), Kevin Montemayor (San Beda), Al-Bukharie Sali (UST), and CJ Segui and Jan Mangulabnan (Mapua) have all passed through the VNS system — refining their craft before stepping into bigger stages.
But what sets VNS apart isn’t just its youth movement. It’s also a sanctuary for veterans — men who have been around the sport long enough to know the value of giving back.
Names like Ish Polvorosa, Kim Malabunga, and Jayvee Sumagaysay brought international and domestic experience that raised the Griffins’ competitive edge, while leaders such as Ben Labide, Vince Lorenzo, Geuel Asia, and Pemie Bagalay provided the steadying hand every young team needs.
“Actually, kung ‘yun ‘yung magiging tulong namin sa volleyball community, maganda na ‘yun,” said Ocampo. “Like what I’ve said nung last game, sabi ko nga ang cycle kasi ng team minsan nasa taas ka, minsan nasa baba. Kasi nga like sa’min, you can never tell kung ano ‘yung magiging story namin for this tournament kasi every year people graduate, some kids go to colleges, ‘yung mga player naman namin na (semi-pro) sometimes nare-recruit sila ng ibang teams.”
That cycle — players coming and going, seasons of rebuilding and renewal — is what keeps the Griffins’ story alive.
Because for VNS, success isn’t measured in banners hanging from rafters, but in the footprints its players leave behind.
Now, the next chapter is being written by RK Medino, a rising national team prospect, and Howard Guerra, two young guns determined to carry on the Griffins’ tradition of development and resilience.
Through every turnover and transition, Ocampo and his crew remain steadfast in their mission: to be the bridge that connects generations, keeping the heartbeat of Philippine men’s volleyball strong.
