CJ Segui has become the face of the youthful VNS-Laticrete in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, but one of his reliable backups is also making a strong case for the spotlight.
RK Medino, a 16-year-old wing spiker from Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, has been steadily proving his worth for the youth-focused Griffins.
In VNS-Laticrete’s crucial 25-23, 25-19, 25-19 victory over PGJC Navy on Friday, Medino stepped up with 14 points, including three blocks, providing a much-needed boost to Segui’s 17-point outing.
For head coach Ralph Ocampo, whose dedication to grassroots volleyball is unmatched, Medino’s recent performance is just the beginning of what he believes is a promising career.
“Si RK, medyo may kaunting takot pa siya gawa nung nag-spasms siya eh. Na-treat na siya pero may kaunting takot pa siya na kailangang i-overcome,” Ocampo shared.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Medino had been relatively quiet in previous games due to lingering back spasms. However, before that setback, he had already shown flashes of brilliance.
In their first-round encounter against the Sealions, Medino exploded for 24 points, delivering 23 spikes and one block.
Despite his challenges, Medino remains grateful for the opportunity to compete against seasoned and decorated players at such a young age.
“Sobrang laking bagay po para sa akin na makapaglaro po sa ganitong liga gaya ng Spikers’ Turf para po sa growth ko,” Medino said. “Nakakatulong po ito sa akin for my future din po para po sa college. Yung exposure sa ganitong liga, madadala ko na yung nilalaro ko dito.”
Part of Coach Ocampo’s developmental program, Medino also played for the Alas Pilipinas Under-18 team alongside fellow Griffins Howard Guerra, Jao Arcillo, and Terrence Marticion.
“Grateful po ako na nakakalaro po ako sa Spikers’ Turf pati na rin po sa Alas U-18 dahil kala coach Ralph po, sila po nag-expose sa akin sa mga ganitong mataas na liga,” Medino added.
