Alyssa Valdez had nothing but praise for Courtney Schwan after the American outside hitter powered Creamline to its first win of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference on Tuesday night.
Valdez said it’s a huge boost for the Cool Smashers to have someone like Schwan — a composed, reliable presence who can help carry the team whenever the situation calls for it.
“Coco, in terms of playing, Coco is a very mature, well-experienced [player]. And we can actually see how composed she was during that crucial point, especially in the fourth set,” said Valdez.
“And it’s just so nice to have a teammate who’s like that, who can carry your whole team and actually bring the best out in all of us,” she added.
Schwan, a veteran internationalist with stints in France, Greece, and Thailand, took control in the fourth set to lead Creamline past Petro Gazz, 25-20, 25-21, 17-25, 25-20.
She showcased her composure and experience in the clutch as she anchored the Cool Smashers’ offense when it mattered most.
The 29-year-old outside hitter led pivotal runs in the fourth, eventually finishing with a game-high 27 points on 24 attacks and three kill blocks. She also had 16 excellent receptions in the bounce-back victory.
(C) PVL Images
“She actually gives us so much advice that really helps us. Little things. She’s very straightforward, very direct. And that’s why we can really appreciate that,” said Valdez, who herself had a good night with 14 points, 14 excellent digs, and 13 excellent receptions.
The Creamline skipper added that Schwan’s leadership and consistency have helped bring out the best in their veteran core, and she hopes that the team can continue building on the chemistry and trust they’ve developed early in the conference.
“We’re all veterans here. That’s why I think open communication really works for us,” Valdez continued.
“And most especially that crucial part, she was just owning it. And she’s actually — she’s not a reinforcement. She’s part of our team. She’s a Creamline Cool Smasher.”
