Creamline fully supports Jia De Guzman’s decision to pursue a career as an import for Denso in Japan’s V.League Division 1.
In an official statement posted by ABS-CBN’s Camille Naredo, the management of the Cool Smashers expressed their unwavering support for De Guzman, an eight-time Best Setter in the Premier Volleyball League, all while she was with Creamline.
The Airybees officially announced their acquisition of the decorated playmaker on Thursday morning.
During her time with Creamline, De Guzman played an instrumental role in leading the team to six championships and earned four Finals Most Valuable Player awards.
The statement from Creamline read, “To say the least, our hearts are brimming with pride and excitement for Jia as she embarks on this incredible journey to play for Denso Airybees.
“Her dedication, skill, and leadership have been a cornerstone of Creamline’s success, and we have no doubt that she’ll leave an indelible mark wherever she goes.”
With De Guzman’s departure, the Cool Smashers will now rely solely on Kyle Negrito as their setter.
The season-ending All-Filipino Conference of the PVL is scheduled to begin in mid-October. Creamline also reaffirmed its commitment to the individual improvement of all its members.
The Cool Smashers will also welcome De Guzman back whenever she feels like coming back home again.
The statement said, “While we’ll undoubtedly miss her presence on the court, we wholeheartedly support her decision to pursue this unique opportunity. These next few months may mark a temporary separation, but they’ll also be a testament to our unwavering commitment to the team and our players’ overall development.”
The upcoming 2023-24 V.League season is set to run from late October to April of the following year. De Guzman is slated to make her debut on October 28 against the defending champions, NEC Red Rockets, followed by her first encounter with Jaja Santiago’s JT Marvelous the week after.
The statement concluded with these words: “The management, her teammates, and coaches stand firmly behind Jia every step of the way. We eagerly await her return, ready to welcome her back with open arms and countless stories to share.
“The court will not be the same without her, but we’re confident that her journey will inspire us all.”
