The Savouge Spin Doctors sense a wider Spikers' Turf championship window following its major offseason additions.
The Spikers’ Turf championship window is wider than ever for the Savouge Spin Doctors.
With nine-time champion Cignal Super Spikers out of the picture, the Spin Doctors are well-positioned for a title run in the 2026 Open Conference.
Assistant coach Macky Cariño did not shy away from the heightened expectations surrounding Savouge as the new season approaches.
"Well, actually, with the reinforcement na dumating sa Savouge team, isa 'yun sa nilolook forward namin—'yung Finals," Cariño said. "Pero hindi 'yan madali. Proseso 'yan. One game at a time muna kami."
Major additions for title chase
During the offseason, Savouge, under CEO and head coach Sydney Calderon, signed stars Louie Ramirez, JP Bugaoan, and KC Andrade following Cignal's leave of absence.
The trio will join a competitive core bannered by multi-awarded hitters Mark Calado and Sherwin Caritativo, along with middle blocker Giles Torres.
[ALSO READ: Louie Ramirez, JP Bugaoan, KC Andrade join Savouge after Cignal’s leave of absence]
Team captain Hero Austria welcomed the additions, noting how quickly the newcomers have blended into the group.
"Sobrang thankful kami kasi sobrang laking impact nila na makatulong sa team namin," Austria said. "Wala naman nagbago sa ambiance namin. Lagi lang GV as a Savouge."
[ALSO READ: More than a game: How Savouge is making a difference in Spikers' Turf]
With the door now open and expectations rising, Savouge is embracing the rising expectations while keeping its foot on the ground.
"One game at a time kami muna kami then at the same time, kung makapasok na kami ng semifinals, siguro by that time, iisipin na namin na i-aim na for the championship," said Cariño.
The Spin Doctors begin their title chase against the returning 3B Event Masters Wednesday, February 24, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.