The Cignal HD Spikers have long relied on the tenacity and consistency of national team libero Dawn Catindig. Now, with the addition of another Premier Volleyball League Best Libero awardee, Buding Duremdes, head coach Shaq Delos Santos believes his team’s defensive wall has never been stronger.
The pairing of Catindig and Duremdes brings a unique blend of skill and personality to Cignal, creating a balanced and dynamic backline.
“Siyempre, hindi naman sa parang maging komportable ako pero alam mo ‘yung ito ‘yung dalawang libero mo na alam mo pag nilagay mo sa loob ng court, sa training, magdedeliver,” Delos Santos shared after Cignal’s four-set victory over Chery Tiggo on Thursday.
The seasoned coach highlighted how the two complement each other on and off the court. “Balanced eh. Ito (si Buding) komedyante. Ito (si Dawn) talagang gusto niya lang mag-focus sa lahat ng ginagawa niya. At the same time, meron din kaming joker na anytime mapapangiti ka kahit ayaw mo. Sobrang okay na meron kaming dalawang libero na Buding and Dawn.”
In the match against Chery Tiggo, Catindig displayed her trademark grit, racking up 23 excellent digs and six excellent receptions. Her composure under pressure has been a cornerstone of Cignal’s defensive stability.
Duremdes, meanwhile, saw limited action, playing just one set as she continues to adjust to her new team. Remarkably, her addition to the roster was only announced a day before the match against her former team, Chery Tiggo.
For Catindig, sharing the libero role with someone as accomplished as Duremdes is a motivating and rewarding experience.
“It’s an honor. Masarap na feeling na there’s someone who has your back na kaya ring mag-deliver at alam kong stable din sa loob ng court,” said the Alas Pilipinas stalwart.
She also noted how Duremdes’ presence has inspired her to keep refining her craft. “Ako naman, kapag sa game, very observant din ako. Ang dami kong napipick-up na skills and IQ sa ibang players. Same din kay Buding na nakakalaban ko na before,” Catindig added
