By Will Imperial
Amidst numerous teams making substantial changes to boost competitiveness, Creamline chose minimal adjustments in pursuit of an eighth championship in the Premier Volleyball League.
The Cool Smashers aim for a third consecutive All-Filipino Conference title as the league commences on Tuesday, February 20, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Coach Sherwin Meneses is aware of the formidable challenge ahead but remains dedicated to finding ways to secure another championship for the Rebisco franchise.
“Creamline’s goal is to win championships, but the question is, ‘How are we going to do it?’” said Meneses.
Having guided the team to consecutive All-Filipino crowns in the previous years, securing their sixth and seventh championships since 2017, he acknowledges the challenge ahead with 11 teams, including two newcomers, eager to end their title run.
Meneses emphasized the significance of approaching each game methodically and maintaining readiness for every opponent.
“One point at a time lang kami, trabaho lang, preparation, kung sino yung kalaban magpe-prepare kami nang mabuti. Hopefully, maging maganda yung result ng mga games namin,” he said.
Blessed with a roster featuring Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, Alyssa Valdez, Michele Gumabao, Kyle Negrito, Pangs Panaga, Bernadette Pons, and the recent addition of top middle player Bea de Leon, the Cool Smashers aim to fortify their lineup for the upcoming season.
Expected to strengthen the team’s defense and offensive capabilities, former Choco Mucho skipper de Leon joins the Cool Smashers. Coach Meneses, however, emphasizes the need for time to allow the team to gel, especially with new additions like defensive ace Denden Lazaro-Revilla.
