Young spiker Reymark Betco had to sit and watch as Savouge stumbled in its opening-day loss to Alpha Insurance.
Placed on reserve, the explosive opposite hitter could only cheer from the sidelines, itching to contribute as his team absorbed a four-set defeat to the retooled Protectors in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference last Monday.
But when his name was finally called, Betco made sure to deliver.
Given the green light to play against the debuting Far Eastern University-DN Steel, the 20-year-old winger made up for lost time. He erupted for 21 points — all from attacks — to power the Spin Doctors to a four-set bounce-back win, 25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 25-21, on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.
“Gustong-gusto ko po kasi talagang bumawi sa team. Kasi siyempre ang pangit ng pagkatalo namin sa Alpha. Pero ‘yun nga, ginawa rin ng Alpha ‘yung best nila kaya natalo kami pero ito na nga, nag-recover kami ngayon kahit galing sa talo,” Betco said.
Coming in hungry and determined, Betco provided the spark Savouge needed after failing to finish off the Tamaraws in the third frame. He spearheaded a crucial 3-0 run in the fourth set that turned a slim one-point lead into a commanding cushion, ultimately sealing the team’s first win of the tournament.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Without a doubt, the College of St. Benilde standout’s patience paid off.
“Hindi naman po namin ine-expect kung sinong ila-lineup ni madam for this game. Ang iniisip na lang namin is susuportahan namin kung sino ‘yung mala-lineup, ‘di ko rin inexpect na ako nga ‘yung maglalaro, so sabi ko opportunity ko ‘to, kaya gagalingan ko pa,” he said.
Savouge head coach Sydney Calderon said Betco’s addition gives the Spin Doctors another offensive weapon to rely on alongside main gunners Mark Calado and Shawie Caritativo.
“Malaking bagay na talagang na-add sa’min si [Reymark] Betco kasi napaka-power na addition sa team namin,” Calderon said. “Gusto niyang maglaro nung first game, kaso marami kaming games this week. Sabi ko, gagamitin kita sa FEU.”
Now in his first stint with Savouge, Betco admitted he’s still adjusting to the team’s system and dynamics but remains committed to maximizing every opportunity and improving with each game.
“Okay naman po, hindi naman sila mahirap pakisamahan gawa’t naging kakampi ko na sila, nakasama. Siyempre ako din ‘yung naga-adjust kasi ako ‘yung pinakabata na naglaro diyan sa team namin,” he said.
