ZUS Coffee is on the rise, with the Thunderbelles determined to reach new heights in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League season.
After enduring two winless conferences, ZUS Coffee has finally broken through in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference, giving their fans a glimpse of what’s to come.
On November 19, the Thunderbelles secured a long-awaited victory by defeating Nxled, breaking their losing streak and marking a milestone in franchise history.
Their momentum didn’t stop there. Just days later, they pulled off another win, this time against the Galeries Tower Highrisers, securing their first-ever win streak.
This victory was especially sweet, considering their painful 20-game losing streak to start the franchise’s journey.
But it wasn’t just the victories that caught attention.
As the year closed, ZUS Coffee faced perennial champion Creamline in a thrilling five-set match.
Although they ultimately lost 22-25, 30-28, 24-26, 25-17, 13-15, the defeat was far from discouraging.
Instead, it proved to be a major boost for the Thunderbelles as they dragged the powerhouse Creamline to the brink.
“Sobrang grateful kami sa naging outcome ng performance namin. Sayang siya sa sayang, pero part of us happy kami kasi somehow yung paghihirap ng team, during trainings na lumalabas,” said a visibly proud Jovelyn Gonzaga, reflecting on their final game of the year.
Gonzaga, one of the Thunderbelles’ key offseason signings, has been an invaluable leader for the team.
Her experience and leadership extend beyond her performances on the court, as she has taken on the role of guiding the young players, helping them unlock their potential.
In recognition of her contributions, Gonzaga was awarded the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of November 19 to 23.
“Good sign na may progress kami. And okay, paonti-onti. And hoping na for next, na magandang baon din siya for bakasyon. And good way din para sa next year namin. Sana madala namin,” Gonzaga added.
As a seasoned veteran, Gonzaga’s presence has allowed the Thunderbelles to build a strong foundation for the team.
However, she also acknowledges the significant contributions of the young players, who are quickly finding their rhythm.
With the likes of PVL inaugural draft first overall pick Thea Gagate, setter Cloanne Mondoñedo, Mich Gamit, Kate Santiago, Chinnie Arroyo, Gayle Pascual, and Shar Ancheta stepping up, Gonzaga feels no pressure to carry the team on her own.
“Ang sarap kasi sa feeling na bilang senior, like hindi yung feeling na ikaw lagi yung aasahan,” said Gonzaga.
“Kung baga lumalabas na slowly yung potential. Yun talaga kasi yung kaya nilang gawin din. Like may mga times nagdadoubt so nawawala, so inconsistent, so slowly dahil sa process, lumalabas yung totoong nilalaro ng mga bata talaga.”
At 2-3, the Thunderbelles are looking forward to a brighter 2025.
Their next challenge comes on January 18, when they face the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at the Philsports Arena, with the hopes of continuing their upward trajectory in the league.
