Gupiteo named Spikers’ Turf Player of the Week after standout performances

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Thrust into the starting lineup of a championship-caliber squad, Alche Gupiteo has made an immediate impact in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference 2026, earning the Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week award for February 25 to March 1. The former UST beach volleyball standout played a pivotal role in Criss Cross’ perfect 3-0 start, showcasing his scoring, reception, and defensive skills in the first three games.

Gupiteo opened his debut last Wednesday at the FilOil Playtime Centre with 11 points, eight excellent receptions, and three digs, powering Criss Cross to a 25-17, 25-15, 25-17 win over VNS Always Bright Laticrete. He followed up on Friday with a double-double of 12 points and 15 receptions in a 25-19, 25-20, 25-20 victory over Alpha Insurance. On Sunday, he added 13 points, 10 receptions, and four digs in the 25-20, 29-27, 25-15 triumph against AEP-Cabstars.

Gupiteo powers Criss Cross with scoring, reception, and digs in his debut match against VNS Always Bright Laticrete. [Spikers Turf photo]

Gupiteo earns Player of the Week recognition

For his consistent all-around performance, Gupiteo was chosen over teammates Jude Garcia, Louie Ramirez of Savouge, Jay Rack De La Noche of AEP-Cabstars, and Carl Berdal of 3B. The award, deliberated by print and online reporters covering the league, highlighted his immediate influence on the King Crunchers’ dominant start.

“I’m very blessed kasi kinuha ako nila. Thankful kasi maganda ‘yung laro. Syempre kinakabahan kasi first Spikers’ Turf ko ‘to. Actually, nagtiwala lang talaga ako sa coaching staff, sa mga kuya, sa managers, that’s why na-boost ‘yung confidence ko to perform,” Gupiteo said. He added that Criss Cross’ family-like environment gave him the confidence to thrive.

“Actually may pressure siya pero I always believe na this is a new beginning, this is a new team, this is a new era, so I have [to] enjoy. Yung Spikers’ Turf is minsan lang, so why not enjoy. So ‘di ko iniisip ‘yung pressure kasi isa ‘yun sa factor na mada-down ka ganun,” he added.

Criss Cross aims to extend winning streak

With Gupiteo establishing himself as a steady presence, Criss Cross has thrived alongside veterans including four-time MVP Jude Garcia, Noel Kampton, Nico Almendras, Ysay Marasigan, and Jaron Requinton. The King Crunchers aim to extend their streak to four games when they face the Event Masters on Friday at 3 p.m. at the FilOil Playtime Centre.

Gupiteo’s versatility and composure reinforce why he earned the Player of the Week honor, making him a key figure in Criss Cross’ campaign in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference 2026.