Reigning PVL MVP Brooke Van Sickle proudly dons the #10 jersey for the Petro Gazz Angels, honoring the late Janisa Johnson.
In sports, certain numbers become legendary, not just for the achievements of the athletes who wore them but also for the legacies they leave behind.
For Petro Gazz Angels superstar Brooke Van Sickle, wearing the #10 jersey is more than just donning a uniform—it’s about honoring a legacy and aspiring to greatness.
The reigning PVL MVP carried off where she left off last conference, finishing with 22 points on 18 attacks, one block, and three service aces in Petro Gazz's sweep of the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 25-16, 25-21, 25-21.
But more than her crucial role for the Angels, Van Sickle is stepping into a significant role as she carries the #10 jersey, previously worn by the late Janisa Johnson, whose sudden passing shocked many volleyball fans in the country.
"To be able to share her number, I don't feel worthy enough to be able to wear her number," Van Sickle told One Sports after the match.
The tragic loss of Johnson was a heavy blow to the volleyball community, with her passing resonating deeply among fans and teammates alike.
Despite not having met Johnson personally, Van Sickle is well aware of the impact she had, especially with the Angels.
"Unfortunately, I didn't get to meet her, and hearing the news a while back was devastating. Everyone was really sad about it, and that's just awful to lose a loved one like that," said Van Sickle.
"Just what I've known is how everyone talks about her and seeing videos of her and how she plays. She's an amazing player, and even more, she's just a wonderful person,” she added.
[ALSO READ: Petro Gazz import Wilma Salas dedicates 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference to late Janisa Johnson]
Petro Gazz management's decision to honor Johnson’s memory by passing on her jersey number to Van Sickle was met with appreciation.
"I'm super happy that management decided that we're recognizing her, and I think it was a fantastic decision to be able to give back."
Playing alongside Johnson’s former teammate Wilma Salas, Van Sickle is committed to living up to the legacy of the #10 jersey and hopes to help Petro Gazz defend the Reinforced Conference title.
"I'm for sure gonna try my hardest in everything to be able to honor her. I feel like it's just full circle for us to be able to have this experience to play with Wilma when Janisa got to play with her. I feel like it's just a wonderful full circle moment, so I hope to be able to do very well for her,” said Van Sickle.