Jude Garcia’s words resonate deeply with his Criss Cross King Crunchers teammates: step up, and good things will follow. And as the King Crunchers swept the PGJC Navy Sealions 25-17, 25-18, 25-22 in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, it was evident that Garcia’s call to action was taken to heart. Three players scored in double digits in the 89-minute showdown, showcasing Criss Cross’s collective strength on the court.
The victory was a breath of fresh air for Criss Cross, which had recently stumbled against rival Cignal HD Spikers, despite a herculean effort from Garcia. In that game, the 2024 Open Conference MVP posted an astounding 35 points on 33 attacks and two blocks, while contributing 26 excellent receptions and 11 digs. But his valiant performance wasn’t enough to carry Criss Cross past Cignal, as the HD Spikers clinched the match in five sets, 25-21, 25-21, 25-27, 18-25, 15-11.
“Syempre volleyball, collective effort talaga kasi kung iisa lang ang gagawa sa game, hindi talaga mananalo yun,” said Garcia, a product of Far Eastern University.
For him, team success relies on shared responsibility—a point that seemed to resonate well in their clash with PGJC Navy.
This time around, Criss Cross’s lineup answered the call. Garcia led the way with 18 points, but he wasn’t alone. Francis Saura contributed 12 points, while Nico Almendras added 11. Gian Glorioso also played his part, scoring eight points as setter Ish Polvorosa orchestrated a well-balanced attack to boost Criss Cross to a 3-1 record.
“Kailangan mag contribute lahat, kailangan mag produce lahat, hindi man sa points kahit sa maliliit na bagay gaya ng depensa ganyan,” Garcia shared.
“Kailangan talaga pagtrabahuhan namin every training yun. Ineensayo pa rin naman namin yun kasi may times talaga na may off, may on so kailangan talaga na magprepare pa kami sa mga games namin,” he added.
Currently tied with Cignal for fourth place, Criss Cross is focused on pushing forward. Their next test comes on Wednesday against Martelli Meats, followed by encounters with FEU-DN Steel, La Salle-EcoOil, Chichi DHTSI, and Savouge.
