Jema Galanza, a pivotal player in Creamline’s triumphant Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference title runs, describes the recent win over Choco Mucho as the most challenging and rewarding victory among their perfect streaks.
The Cool Smashers maintained an unbeaten streak, winning all 15 games, culminating in a thrilling 22-25, 25-20, 29-27, 24-26, 15-12 victory against Choco Mucho in Game 2 of the finals, witnessed by a record-breaking crowd at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Despite the seemingly effortless wins, Jema Galanza acknowledges the intensified level of competition in the expanded 12-team PVL league, emphasizing the physically demanding and evenly matched contests, attributing the season’s uniqueness to this competitive escalation.
Playing without star players Jia De Guzman and Ced Domingo, who were away competing in Japan and Thailand respectively, added a layer of challenge to Creamline’s campaign. Jema Galanza lauded the efforts of setter Kyle Negrito, middle blocker Jeanette Panaga, and Risa Sato for stepping up in their absence, acknowledging their instrumental role in the team’s success.
Expressing gratitude for Negrito, Panaga, and Sato’s remarkable contributions under immense pressure, Jema Galanza highlighted their collective effort in steering the team toward their goals.
Read more: Creamline’s Mental Resilience in the PVL Finals
Amidst the intense season marked by challenges and pressure, Jema Galanza emphasizes the team’s resilience and determination, driven by the hardships and numerous adjustments they faced. She underlines their relentless pursuit of victory, unwilling to concede any game and valuing every hard-fought point.
While Creamline retains its status as the most successful PVL club with seven titles, Galanza expresses a desire for continued success, hoping the Cool Smashers can maintain the core team in the upcoming seasons, fostering growth and unity to secure more championships together.
Her aspiration revolves around building on the lessons learned from this season’s endeavors, looking ahead to a future filled with more victories and collective growth for the team. Who would not aspire for that after such a glorious journey.
Image source: Rappler
