With their stars out due to various reasons, Creamline opposite spiker Michele Gumabao and the remaining Cool Smashers continue to hold the fort in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference.

The reigning All-Filipino Conference champions’ campaign in the import-laced tourney was shrouded by uncertainty following injuries to key players Tots Carlos and Alyssa Valdez, as well as the absence of Jema Galanza due to her responsibilities with Alas Pilipinas.

Creamline’s first challenge came in the form of a tough five-set loss at the hands of PLDT last Tuesday, but Gumabao and co. had the perfect answer, bouncing back via a four-set triumph against a tough Farm Fresh side last Saturday.

“Siyempre, Creamline naman isn’t just one player, so it’s really the whole team. We’re really one big family and pare-pareho naman kami ginagawa everyday,” said the La Salle product, who took the leadership mantle following the absence of their stars.

“We all have the same program, we all have the same training, our coaches treat us all the same, so whenever we step onto the court, we all have to perform in the same way also,” she added.

Gumabao, who has always been the first to step up whenever one of their stars gets sidelined, delivered a big performance against the Foxies, firing 21 points with 19 attacks, one ace, and one block.

(C) PVL Images

It’s not just Gumabao who came up big in the absence of Carlos, Valdez, and Galanza as Jeanette Panaga contributed 12 points and Bernadeth Pons had a well-rounded performance of nine markers, 19 excellent receptions, and 12 excellent digs in the victory.

The 31-year-old winger emphasized the importance of practice, stating that consistent and dedicated training lays the foundation for success on the field.

“Nagsta-start kami sa practice. Pare-pareho naman kami ng role and lagi din naman nireremind samin ni coach na leader din kami lahat on and off the court so whether you’re playing or not, you always have a big contribution to the team,” said Gumabao.

“So, to be ready, kung ano lang talaga ‘yung opportunity sa harap kailangan take advantage lang talaga. Pag nakakuha ng set, kailangan paluin, so just really doing my job inside and really trying to contribute in any area that I can,” she added.

“Kahit naman sa mga coaches namin, hindi nila hinahanap ‘yung mga wala, so kailangan sa sarili namin, once we’re inside, we have to really take this opportunity, especially kami na hindi rin part ng first six before, so we really need to step up para sa inaantay namin bumalik.”

With the return of Carlos, Valdez, and Galanza still uncertain, expect Gumabao and the rest of the Cool Smashers to hold the fort as they try to keep the team afloat without their stars.