Spikers' Turf: Steven Rotter grateful for PH return, joins Cignal HD Spikers

Two-time SEA V.League Best Opposite Steven Rotter has joined the Cignal HD Spikers for the upcoming 2024 Spikers Turf Invitational Conference.

The Philippine National Volleyball Federation called up the Filipino-American opposite spiker before the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia, but it was during the 2023 SEA V.League where Rotter impressed many with his offensive talent.

“It's been a year since I've been back to the Philippines from the US. It's gonna take a little time to get back on my endurance, but I'm slowly getting back to my true self when I was Best Opposite in the Philippines,” said Rotter.

This won’t be the first time the 26-year-old spiker will play in the Spikers’ Turf after suiting up for the AMC-Cotabato team during the 2023 Open Conference. 

However, after his first stint with the national team, Rotter wasn’t sure if he could return to the Philippines. That’s why the Fil-Am spiker immediately said yes to the offer made by HD Spikers coach Dexter Clamor.

“Coach Dexter asked me if I wanted to, and I said yes right away because I've always wanted to. I was gonna come first here, but something happened, so I'm glad that I'm able to come my second year around,” said Rotter.

That means he would also be reunited with his AMC-Cotabato teammate Jau Umandal in Cignal.

Rotter joins the list of players that the HD Spikers were able to acquire during the offseason, which includes Owa Retamar, Martin Bugaoan, and JM Ronquillo.

Also set to make his return to the team will be Louie Ramirez, who is expected to lead the charge for the HD Spikers, who will be without superstar Bryan Bagunas as he recovers from his knee injury.

Cignal is seeking back-to-back championships in the 2024 season after clinching the Open Conference last May when they triumphed against Criss Cross King Crunchers.

“My contribution to the team is to bring lots of energy, kill the ball when I'm needed, and just be a good teammate all around. We have a lot of good hitters, liberos, setters, and it's just nice to be part of an all-around team,” said Rotter.

[NEXT: Teams tussle in 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference starting October 16]

First up for the HD Spikers will be the Chichi DHTSI Brotherhood Titans on Tuesday, October 22 at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex.