From a temporary starter to a key fixture in Criss Cross’ lineup, Jaron Requinton has solidified his place as one of the most reliable players in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.

Requinton, a 6-foot-2 opposite hitter, initially filled in as a starter in the King Crunchers’ opening match. But what began as a short-term role quickly turned into a breakout season as his strong performances helped push Criss Cross to the brink of an elimination round sweep.

Breakout performances fuel Criss Cross’ dominance

With the round-robin semifinals looming, Requinton’s confidence has grown with every match—along with his impact on the court.

After scoring nine points in Criss Cross’ 25-12, 25-18, 25-22 win over VNS-Laticrete, he followed up with two stellar performances against title contenders.

• Against Cignal (March 14): Requinton fired a game-high 18 points as Criss Cross swept their elimination round series against the defending champions, 19-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-19.
• Against Savouge (March 16): He delivered a career-best 22 points, including 15 attacks, five kill blocks, and two aces, in a five-set thriller (20-25, 25-13, 24-26, 25-19, 15-11), keeping Criss Cross unbeaten at 9-0.

“Siyempre, nakaka-proud din sa sarili na ‘yung mga pinaghirapan ko sa training, parang nagpa-payoff siya ngayon,” said Requinton. “Ayoko talaga sila i-disappoint sa performance na nilalabas ko every game.”

Player of the Week honors

For his crucial role in Criss Cross’ 3-0 week, Requinton earned the Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week award for the period of March 12 to 16.

The Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball standout edged out teammate Jude Garcia, Ish Polvorosa, CJ Segui (VNS), Steven Rotter (Cignal), and Mark Calado (Savouge) for the honor.

Staying focused for the playoffs

While Criss Cross’ victories over Cignal and Savouge boosted the team’s morale, Requinton warned that they must remain focused heading into the semifinals.

“Nakaka-boost din siya ng morale, at the same time, dapat matuto rin kami na hindi kami maging complacent,” he said. “Pagdating ng semis, mawawala ito lahat, back to zero lahat.”

Criss Cross looks to complete a perfect elimination round with a win over PGJC-Navy on Wednesday before shifting their focus to the round-robin semifinals.