By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
They came all prepared and oozing with confidence. Over the last five months of intense battle, the Petro Gazz Angels slowly built their team chemistry, polished their skills and toughen their mental resolve to reach the pivotal finals in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
But there were some moments of hesitations for star hitter Brooke Van Sickle whether they have what it takes to take down such a powerful team as 11-time champion Creamline.
“Creamline’s tough. They’re a dynasty, a winning team and the whole time, we didn’t feel like we had this,” Van Sickle admitted.
But the doubts quickly vanished as soon as she sees the determination and grit on their team’s faces, which eventually fueled them their first-ever All-Filipino crown and third league title.
“We know we just have to fight and we know we need to put the effort in and just see the results. Our mindset was to continue to push because we know Creamline’s the kind of team that will just continue to fight and keep coming at you non-stop,” said Van Sickle, who was later adjudged the Conference Most Valuable Player.
“We knew we just have to keep trying our hardest and stay together and now, we prevailed,” she added.
Indeed, they finally conquered the dangers leading to the summit, bouncing back from a third-set hiccup and prevailing 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 in their rubber match on Saturday, April 12, at the packed Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The victory, likewise, exorcised the ghost of their 2023 finals defeat against the same rival, where Petro Gazz also drew the first blood in Game 1, only to lose in the next two matches.
MJ Phillips, who was part of that heartbreaking defeat, took it as part of her learning experience. The Fil-American opposite hitter believed in patience, hard work and right timing.
“We learned from our past,” said Phillips, who was eventually awarded the Finals MVP. “We came together even when times are tough and our backs against the wall. We all stayed patient because our time’s gonna come, and thankfully, it did tonight.”
Koji Tsuzurabara, who took over Petro Gazz’s coaching reins just last year, couldn’t even hide his emotions after winning his first title with the Angels. Amid the celebration, Tsuzurabara quietly walked to the sideline, the results of his unconventional but effective style of coaching slowly sinking in. He was met by team captain Remy Palma, and the two shared a long, emotional embrace – two leaders who kept believing when it seemed impossible.
“Today, I felt a different atmosphere before the game. I trusted the team and I believe in this team. I appreciate them,” said Tsuzurabara
Without a doubt, hard work and trust pushed the Angels to the top. And they’re now singing and enjoying up there.
