After back-to-back runner-up finishes, Criss Cross is determined to finally break through, banking on improved composure and consistency as the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference kicks off this Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
Reigning MVP Jude Garcia shared that the King Crunchers — who fell short against Cignal in both the Open and Invitational Conference finals — have focused on becoming more steady and disciplined.
They will enter the tournament with a sharper mindset and a stronger finishing touch.
Garcia believes these qualities will be crucial in Criss Cross’ quest for its first-ever championship in the country’s premier men’s volleyball league.
“In-improve lang namin ‘yung consistency namin sa loob ng court. Last conference, alam namin na kulang kami sa composure and then ‘yung consistency sa loob, kaya ‘yun ‘yung winorkout namin nung past camp namin,” said the two-time league MVP during the tournament’s media day last Monday.
The former Far Eastern University standout is eager to showcase the progress the King Crunchers have made over the past months, confident that their hard work and adjustments will pay off when they take the court.
Criss Cross will begin its redemption campaign against VNS-Laticrete at 6:00 PM.
“This conference, maglaro lang kami nang maayos and then ipakita namin ulit kung ano ‘yung pinag-ensayuhan namin this past months kay Coach Tai (Bundit),” Garcia added.
“Ayun nga, ‘yung goal pa rin is makuha ‘yung championship, ‘yung unang championship ng Criss Cross. Sana magawa namin lahat ng pinag-ensayuhan.”
The King Crunchers will field an intact core in hopes of building stronger chemistry and finally securing the elusive championship.
Garcia will lead the charge alongside Nico Almendras, Ysay Marasigan, and Francis Saura, stepping up in the absence of Marck Espejo.
Meanwhile, a fully recovered Kim Malabunga will reinforce the middle blockers alongside the vastly improved Gian Glorioso, seasoned veteran Rex Intal, and the reliable Chu Nigha.
Malabunga was sidelined by a freak injury at the start of the 2024 Invitational Conference and only returned in the latter stages.
Ish Polvorosa will once again take the reins as the team’s playmaker, orchestrating the offense with his trademark precision. At the backline, Manuel Sumanguid and John Pepito will share libero duties, providing a solid defensive foundation.
With a renewed mindset and a determined squad, Criss Cross is ready to take on the challenge and chase the championship that has long eluded them.
