Creamline Cool Smashers' Jema Galanza and Ella de Jesus reveal how they motivate and support each other as both partners and teammates, highlighting the traits they admire most in one another.
Being both partners and teammates can be challenging, yet incredibly fortunate at the same time.
While you share the same trials during training, you also have someone to lean on through every struggle, both on and off the court.
For Creamline Cool Smashers' Jema Galanza and Ella de Jesus, the two have beautifully found harmony in balancing these dual roles.
In an interview with One Sports, the two shared how they’ve found a way to juggle being both teammates and partners, all while keeping each other motivated.
"Actually hindi namin naiisip na partner kami sa training,” revealed Creamline’s libero, Ella.
Balancing their roles as both partners and teammates isn't always easy, but Jema and Ella have learned to separate their personal lives from their professional ones.
They focus on the task at hand and support each other through every practice session and match, without letting their relationship interfere with their performance on the court.
"Meron talaga kaming ... minsan nagkakainisan po kami,” Jema, Creamline’s ace, added with a smile.
These moments are a natural part of any relationship, but they’ve managed to work through them, always finding a way to stay focused on their shared goals and continue to love one another deeply.
"Pero kapag may struggle kami sa isa't isa, lagi lang kaming nag-uusap sa kung ano 'yong ipe-prep kapag nagta-training. Ano pa 'yong kailangan kong i-improve. Ganun din sa kanya (Ella),” Jema explained tenderly.
Their communication plays a crucial role in their success.
Whenever they face challenges, they talk things through, always finding ways to improve individually and as a team. This open communication helps them stay aligned both on and off the court.
"Very vocal kami sa advice sa isa't isa pagdating sa paglalaro,” Ella agreed, her voice soft but sure.
By being open with each other and sharing advice, they continue to push one another toward greater success, making them stronger together, both as athletes and as individuals.
When asked about their favorite thing about each other, Jema had two heartwarming answers that perfectly capture the depth of their bond.
"As teammates, masaya kasi ayun nga kapag nag-struggle ako, meron akong makakausap saka masasandalan. Kapag sad ako. Same din kami ganun din siya sa akin,” she said.
In both their personal and professional lives, they are each other's safe space.
Whether they’re facing challenges on or off the court, they know they’ll always have someone to lean on.
“As a partner ang gusto ko sa kaniya, maalaga. Actually kahit teammate, maalaga siya,” she added.
Ella’s caring nature is the essence of what makes their connection special. Whether on or off the court, Ella’s attentiveness and affection give Jema the reassurance and warmth she needs, making her feel cherished every day.
Ella expressed her admiration for Jema with a single, powerful word.
"Ako, one word lang. For both, as partners and as teammates. Favorite ko sa kaniya [ang] pagiging fighter."
In both their relationship and their work together, Jema’s resilience inspires Ella, pushing her to be the best version of herself, both in love and in their shared goals.
Their admiration for each other highlights the depth of their connection—not just as teammates but as partners who share an unwavering support for one another.
Together, Jema and Ella prove that true partnership is built on understanding, compassion, and the ability to push each other toward greatness.
Their love and respect for each other create a powerful foundation that allows them to thrive, both on and off the court.
Watch the full interview here: