Team Power Holds Off Team Passion to Claim Spikers’ Turf All-Star Crown

Team Power displayed poise under pressure to fend off a late surge from Team Passion, winning 25-18, 25-18, 21-25, 25-23 and capturing the Spikers’ Turf exhibition title during the 2026 Volleyball All-Star Showcase on Friday at the Candon City Arena.

Led by team captain Noel Kampton, who earned Most Valuable Player honors, Team Power came out aggressive, effectively using the Premier Ball to set the early pace. Their disciplined offense and timely scoring allowed them to dominate the first two sets, keeping Team Passion from establishing any rhythm.

But Team Passion fought back in the third set, with Poy Colinares, Jau Umandal, Mark Calado, and Jared Schnake tightening their defense and capitalizing on errors to extend the match and shift momentum.

Team Power coach Sydney Calderon acknowledged a shaky start but credited his team’s composure for regaining control.

"Medyo struggling lang kami ng first five points naunahan kami, so sabi ko sa kanila huwag na nila pansinin yung score, maglaro lang kayo kailangan pa rin natin pumasa at dahan lang so yun, nalabas naman," Calderon said.

The fourth set became a tense battle. Alche Gupiteo’s cross-court attack tied it at 21-all, threatening a deciding set. But Kim Malabunga and JM Ronquillo delivered back-to-back kills to push Team Power ahead, 23-21. Jay Rack De La Noche kept Team Passion close, yet Ronquillo forced a block touch that set up match point at 24-22. Nas Gwaza briefly extended the match, but Kampton sealed the win with a sharp cross-court finish, celebrating with a playful court-crossing gesture.

Kampton led all scorers with 14 points, including 13 attacks and a service ace, securing Team Power’s P100,000 exhibition prize. Ronquillo contributed nine points, while Jude Garcia and Lloyd Josafat added eight each.

For Team Passion, the P50,000 runner-up prize went with strong performances from Mark Calado, who topped the team with 16 points (14 attacks, 2 kill blocks), Poy Colinares with nine, and De La Noche with eight.

In side events, the PVL All-Stars also competed in the Zig-Zag Dig-A-Thon. Team Hustle, led by Brooke Van Sickle, Jackie Acuña, and Tots Carlos, teamed up with three fans to claim the challenge. Team Heart—featuring Jema Galanza, Myla Pablo, and Jean Asis—also participated, supported by three fans in the spirited exhibition contest.