PVL: Jema Galanza picks up leadership challenge for Creamline with Alyssa Valdez out

MANILA, Philippines—While Creamline’s Alyssa Valdez’s return from injury is still unclear, Jema Galanza made sure to bring the leader “Ate Ly” on the court for the Cool Smashers.

After the squad’s four-set win over Chery Tiggo, 17-25, 25-11, 25-19, 25-21, in the Premiere Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena on Saturday, Galanza acknowledged the team’s difficulties without Valdez on the court.

“Actually, in our game without Ate Ly, it’s a bit heavy because we don’t have a leader on the court, but she always tells me what to do inside. Take responsibility on the court and feel the sport of volleyball to get out of your game,” said Galanza in Filipino.

He, who finished with 25 points, also said that he had received guidance from Valdez as he dealt with a sore knee.

“He said, if I’m happy, I’m happy and I talk to them inside the court, it’s leadership and it’s absorbed by the whole team. That’s what he said and I’ll never forget it.”

On Saturday afternoon, Creamline announced that Valdez had a “procedure” on his right knee. The exact procedure and timetable for his return was not disclosed.

But Valdez, always present at training and games despite his injury, was seen watching his team from the sidelines in Pasig, but asked not to talk about his condition.

“It’s a big thing to understand mistakes and have leadership inside even in training. Those types of moves really wake us up. he [Valdez] talking to us 1-on-1, not just me but also Tots and Kyla, so I don’t feel like she’s not there,” she said.

NOT TESTED

Coach Sherwin Meneses acknowledged that the Cool Smashers still have a ways to go before reaching their full potential, especially without their ace spiker.

“Of course our team still needs to improve. Our first six have not been tested in a long competition. They have only been tested in AVC for a week. Let’s see how this program will help us. There is still a month left in this league so our team can still improve,” said the interpreter that tactic.

“Maybe now, we’re good, maybe.”

Without the former Ateneo standout, Creamline held its own, securing the top spot in the conference as of writing with four wins and only one loss. The only loss was from F2 Logistics a week ago in a tight five setter.

PLDT and Cargo Movers are just a game behind with twin 3-1 records.

Like Galanza, Meneses also reiterated Valdez’s presence for the Cool Smashers, stating he is “still a leader” despite his incapacitation.

“He’s there every day. If he’s five minutes late (in practice), he’ll think about it. He’s always early even though his rehab is around the corner. He’s a leader.”

The Cool Smashers look to maintain the chokehold of the first seed when they face the defeat of Army-Black Mamba (0-4) in the same venue.

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