In front of the biggest crowd the league had ever seen, Alpha Insurance newcomer Axel Van Book showed he belonged on the big stage.
Book rose to the occasion, helping the Protectors pull off a stunning 25-22, 19-25, 26-24, 22-25, 16-14 upset of star-studded Savouge Spin Doctors for a winning start in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference before 13,180 fans at the SM Seaside Cebu Arena on October 10.
Despite the nerves of playing before a record crowd, the reigning NCAA MVP erupted for 21 points on 19 attacks and two blocks while chipping in six excellent digs to lead Alpha Insurance’s rousing debut.
‘For me, this is the first time I’ve played in front of such a big crowd with so many people cheering. I’ve never experienced this before in tournaments here in Manila. So there’s definitely pressure, and at the same time, we really need to adjust,’ Book said in Filipino.
Book’s composure on the big stage translated into individual recognition, as the Protectors ace earned the Spikers’ Turf Press Corps Player of the Week award for October 10 to 17.
He bested Alpha Insurance teammates Reymark Betco and EJ Casana, Criss Cross’ Jude Garcia, Clearskiiin’s Klint Mateo, and Far Eastern University standouts Dryx Saavedra and Rhodson Du-ot for the weekly honor voted on by print and online reporters covering the league.
As part of its 10th anniversary celebration, tournament organizer Sports Vision integrated select Spikers’ Turf matches into the Premier Volleyball League schedule to bring the men’s game to a wider audience.
With the opportunity to showcase his skills before a bigger crowd, Book did not want the trip to Cebu to end in defeat.
‘That was the challenge for me. I felt the pressure at first, but I just fought through it because we couldn’t come all the way here and come away with a bad result,’ said Book, who earned his first call-up to Alas Pilipinas for the SEA V Cup over the summer.
‘For me, I’m really happy and grateful that our first game here was in Cebu. We were able to get the win, too. It was a great game, and we didn’t expect to adjust that well to the court and our system,’ he added.
Book and the rest of Alpha Insurance look to build on their strong start when they take on National University-Archipelago Builders on Thursday, 3 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.