In a captivating narrative of determination and team camaraderie, Creamline achieved victory in the Premier Volleyball League Second All-Filipino Conference, successfully defending their title against a resilient Choco Mucho squad in an enthralling two-game finals series. The odds were stacked against them due to the absence of key players Jia De Guzman and Ced Domingo, who had embarked on journeys abroad to pursue their international aspirations.
Nevertheless, the Cool Smashers demonstrated the true essence of champions by uniting and drawing inspiration from unexpected sources. Unlikely heroes emerged from the shadows, rising to the occasion and seamlessly filling the void left by the team's star players. Jema Galanza, the heartbeat of Creamline, expressed her gratitude to these unsung heroes, recognizing the significant contributions of Kyle Negrito, Jeanette Panaga, Risa Sato, and the entire team that played a crucial role in securing their seventh title in the nation's only professional women's volleyball league.
Galanza conveyed heartfelt appreciation to Negrito, Panaga, Sato, and others who embraced their roles with resilience, acknowledging the immense pressure they faced. In the absence of Jia De Guzman, Negrito assumed the role of the Cool Smashers' lead setter, skillfully directing the team's offense. Meanwhile, Risa Sato, stepping into Ced Domingo's shoes, infused much-needed energy and enthusiasm into the squad throughout the demanding conference.
Panaga, a mainstay in the Creamline lineup since 2021, elevated her performance to new heights, earning her fifth Best Middle Blocker award in the PVL. Galanza, the former league MVP, acknowledged the collective effort that propelled Creamline towards their championship goal.
Reflecting on Creamline's title-clinching victory over Choco Mucho in Game 2, Galanza commended the resilience of her teammates. "I just want to say to Kyle [Negrito] and to Pangs [Panaga], to [Risa] Sato, actually to everyone who stepped up, the work they did was tough, and the pressure they carried," she stated. "But they also brought us to the goal we wanted (the championship)."
With this triumph, Creamline not only secured another title but also solidified the legacy of a team built on unity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of its unsung heroes. The story of their victory will undoubtedly resonate as a testament to the power of teamwork and the ability to overcome challenges on the path to success.
