BEYOND THE GAME  

By Brian Yalung

The Petro Gazz Angels are hoping to collar their third PVL title, although the path toward it won’t be easy. Standing in their way are the Creamline Cool Smashers, a powerhouse team looking to sustain their dominance in the league.

But if the performance of the Angels lately is any indication, the Cool Smashers cannot afford to take the Angels lightly. The two teams met twice this conference, with Creamline winning their duel on opening day. However, the Angels avenged that loss and won in the semifinals.

The Cool Smashers will be led by some of the top players in the country, such as Alyssa Valdez, Bernadeth Pons, and Kyle Negrito. However, the Angels also have their own top players. That includes Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, and MJ Phillips, among others.

In a chat with Angels team manager David Dichupa Jr., he admitted that playing Creamline is an experience. He feels they have a 50-50 chance against the Cool Smashers.

“Playing against them has always been an experience! This conference, we’re 1-1 against them. The girls are so excited to be in the finals, and we’ll be ready. They’ve been waiting for just this opportunity. We’ll just try to do our best,” Dichupa stated. “As to our chances? I would think it’s 50-50,” he added.

Coach Koji’s game plan makes all the difference

For the Angels, all eyes will be on head coach Koji Tsuzurabara. Since arriving last year, there is no question that his system has done wonders for Petro Gazz.

Tsuzurabara takes his job seriously. Dichupa attested to that, admitting that the Japanese coach makes it a point to do his homework and come up with the proper game plan for the team.

“Coach Koji Tsuzurabara is a very good coach. He does everything you could think of to prepare for each game. His volleyball experience is extensive! He will give his all to win this championship, believe me,” Dichupa added.

Positive vibes push Angels toward the title

One ingredient that helps a team become successful is chemistry. When players start to encourage their teammates and have fun, opposing teams should be wary.

Dichupa pointed this out, stressing how the girls have been having fun with each game. In fact, before their game against Akari, the Angels team manager shared an interesting conversation with Coach Tsuzurabara.

“Coach Koji had an observation before our game against Akari. He said to me, ‘We’ve become a different team from last year.’ The girls are ready, WE’RE ALL READY!!! We trained hard for this and we know what we can do,” said Dichupa.

For the Angels, the fact that they have yet to win the All-Filipino could serve as added motivation. They came close several times, but those opportunities were spurned by Creamline no less. Will the narrative change this time around?