“DISMAYADO” JEMA GALANZA Would have played in CREAMLINE If DEBRITO didn’t sabotage it!

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Michele Gumabao’s leadership shines through for Creamline

Creamline’s journey through the first round of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference has been anything but smooth.

With three of their top stars—Tots Carlos, Alyssa Valdez, and Jema Galanza—sidelined due to injuries and international duties, the Cool Smashers were forced to dig deep.

Despite these challenges, the reigning All-Filipino Conference champions managed to secure the top spot in Pool A, closing out the first round with a 4-1 record after a four-game winning streak.

The opening loss against PLDT in a grueling five-setter seemed to serve as a wake-up call for Creamline.

From that point on, the team, led by the ever-reliable Michele Gumabao, exhibited a level of discipline and perseverance that kept them afloat amid adversity.

“Siguro number one ‘yung tiyaga and disiplina talaga namin. So we start in practice na kahit anong results ng game, kailangan kami hard working, kailangan alam namin ‘yung trabaho namin, ‘yung kailangan naming gawin and do our best,” said Gumabao.

Gumabao also highlighted the importance of trust—trust in each other, in their coaches, and in their faith.

“Siguro ‘yung tiwala na lang din namin, ‘yung tiwala namin kay God, sa coaches namin, the trust that we have for our teammates, sa management namin,” she added, emphasizing the strong bonds within the team.

The veteran opposite hitter’s leadership was evident not just in her words, but in her actions.

On the court, Gumabao has been a stabilizing force, helping to maintain the team’s composure and motivation through a challenging period. She spoke about the team’s approach, focusing on how they encouraged one another and kept their spirits high.

“As a family talaga kami naglalaro lagi, so nandun talaga ‘yun and hindi mawawala. And si coach naman, never niya kaming pinapagalitan naman. Pero ‘yung kunwari matalo, manalo, lagi lang sasabihin ni coach na nangyayari talaga ‘yan sa game, it’s part of the game,” Gumabao shared.

For Gumabao and the Cool Smashers, every game is an opportunity to grow and improve.

“Kung paano na lang talaga kami makakabawi sa practice and sa susunod naming mga laban. We’re thankful na lang din na syempre, hindi lahat nabibigyan ng opportunity makalaro dito sa pros, so we take advantage talaga every chance we get,” she continued.

Their resilience was on full display as Creamline wrapped up the first round with a dominant straight-sets victory over Nxled, 25-18, 25-18, 25-20, at the Philsports Arena. Once again, the team leaned on the trio of Gumabao, Bernadeth Pons, and import Erica Staunton to secure the win.

Pons delivered an all-around performance, contributing 13 points, 14 excellent digs, and eight excellent receptions. Staunton, the team’s American reinforcement, also made her presence felt with 13 points, while Gumabao chipped in 12 points during the one-hour, 31-minute match.

Reflecting on the team’s current state, Gumabao acknowledged the changes in their starting lineup and the adjustments they’ve had to make.

“Nabanggit nga ni coach na ‘yung first six namin ngayon ang dami nga talagang nagbago, ang daming changes. Kapaan pa talaga pero nandun naman ‘yung tiwala para sa bawat isa sa team,” said the 10-time champion in Sports Vision-organized leagues.

Despite the uncertainties and adjustments, Gumabao’s message remained clear: readiness and improvement are key.