No Bad Blood for ex-Cignal HD Spikers who cross to new team Criss Cross

MANILA, Philippines: The defending champion Cignal HD Spikers lost most of its key cog players coming to this Spikers’ Turf 2024 Open Conference. Head coach Dante Clamor bares his emotions on losing some of his core players, but is also “excited to more competitive Philippine men’s volleyball”

Rebisco introduced its new men’s volleyball club, Criss Cross King Crunchers and most of its players came from the champion team Cignal.

“To be honest, I was a little sad and frustrated with the players who parted with Cignal and went with Rebisco. But at the same time, I am excited because this gives more value to the Philippine men’s volleyball. Spikers’ Turf will be more exciting and competitive,” Clamor said during the Spikers’ Turf media day on Tuesday, March 5 at the TV 5 Media Center.

Ysay Marasigan, a former team captain of the Spikers will now steer the ship of Criss Cross. With his exit, Clamor appointed two new team captains: Wendell Miguel and JP Bugaon.

On going against their former teammates the two skippers both agreed that they respect their teammates’ decision.

“Of course, it is a little bit awkward to be playing against them. But overall I am happy with their decision and I respect that. Of course, inside the court it will all be different,” Miguel said with a cryptic smile.

“Exciting, because we already know their move inside the court but then again we will put up the fight.” Bugaon added.

The other Cignal players who transferred to Criss Cross are: Chu Nijgha (middle blocker), Marck Espejo (outside hitter), Geuel Asia (setter), and Manuel Sumanguid III (libero).

Rex Intal, who is also now with Criss Cross was with Cignal for four years (2017-2022) before transferring to the AMC Cotabato Spikers in 2023.

The Spikers’ Turf is composed of nine teams gunning for the crown.