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Erica Staunton: Youngest import, last one standing
Erica Staunton, at just 23 years old, may have been the youngest import in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, but she emerged as a crucial force in the tournament. Staunton’s contributions were instrumental in ending Creamline’s six-year title drought, leading the Cool Smashers to their ninth overall championship and their second Reinforced Conference crown.
In the gold medal match against Akari, Staunton delivered a stellar performance, contributing 13 points as Creamline secured a dominant 25-15, 25-23, 25-17 victory at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. Despite her youth and relatively modest scoring numbers compared to some of her peers, Staunton’s impact was undeniable, embodying the essence of teamwork and dedication that defines the Cool Smashers.
Reflecting on her experience, Staunton emphasized the importance of collective effort over individual accolades. “I think I learned a lot, especially with MG emphasizing how this team is really centered on teamwork. I don’t think one person is the star of the show,” Staunton shared. Her perspective highlights a crucial element of Creamline’s success: a deep-rooted team dynamic where every member plays a vital role.
Staunton’s role was not just to score but to blend seamlessly into a well-oiled machine. “I think everybody pulled their weight this entire conference, and that’s how Creamline just is as a team from what I’ve seen in their past conferences before I got here,” she explained. Her ability to adapt and support her teammates was a key factor in Creamline’s triumph.
The Reinforced Conference title had been elusive for Creamline in recent years, with the team finishing with bronze in 2022 and silver in 2019. The last time they claimed the Reinforced crown was in 2018, with Kuttika Kaewpin and Laura Schaudt leading the charge. Staunton’s arrival and contributions were pivotal in reclaiming the top spot.
The road to victory was not without challenges. Creamline began the conference with a tough five-set loss to PLDT, a setback that taught Staunton and her teammates valuable lessons in resilience. “We had the mindset of taking it one game at a time, one set at a time, one point at a time,” Staunton said. “It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish—and I think we finished very strong.”
Staunton’s resilience was mirrored in the team’s performance throughout the tournament. The Cool Smashers bounced back from their initial loss and faced further adversity with a defeat against Petro Gazz. Yet, they responded with determination, overcoming challenges and learning from their mistakes, ultimately securing their place at the top.
As Creamline prepares for the upcoming Invitational Conference, Staunton will continue to be a vital part of the squad. The team’s first game is scheduled for Friday, and Staunton’s ongoing contribution will be crucial as they look to build on their recent success.
