The Creamline Cool Smashers have always been about cheerful vibes. Just take a look at middle blocker Risa Sato.
At the same time, they will always be competitive inside the court. Their sweep of the PVL Second All-Filipino Conference without main setter Jia de Guzman and star middle blocker Ced Domingo speaks volumes of their depth and skill.
Well, to be fair, how can you NOT be cheerful when you pick up all the wins?
So it's easy to see how the Cool Smashers have garnered so many loyal fans over the years, spearheaded by the widespread following for team captain Alyssa Valdez.
Her appeal has become global, even non-Filipinos have become enamored of The Phenom.
On Tuesday, photographer Reychel Ann Domingo shared a story on Instagram about a Malaysian fan who flew to the Philippines just to watch Valdez and Creamline in Game 2 of the PVL Second All-Filipino Conference finals last December 16.
"Came here to watch the games and see you (Valdez) personally if I can. I hope I can take some photographs. Anyway, good luck for the finals. I'm always rooting for you. I watch your every game," the fan said in a video, emphasizing every word in the last sentence.
She first became a fan of Valdez during the star spiker’s stint in the reality TV show Pinoy Big Brother during the pandemic. The Malaysian fan then watched all of Creamline's games on YouTube and became a fan ever since, Domingo shared.
"Grabe talaga effect ni Alyssa Valdez at ng Cool Smashers," she noted.
Valdez was quick to share the touching tale on her Instagram Story.
It’s yet another proof of her wide reach and inimitable impact outside the court.
The Phenom, indeed.
(PM)