She’s only played here for a few weeks but Creamline’s Kuttika Kaewpin has already gained a massive Filipino following
While it certainly helps that she plays with the Philippines’ most popular player Alyssa Valdez, Kaewpin earned the hearts of fans with her fearless and diminutive play.
At five-foot-seven, the 22-year old is undersized as a spiker. She, however, more than makes up for it with her supreme bounce and wicked whip for an arm.
Kaewpin was especially brilliant yesterday, helping the Cool Smashers survive a grueling five-setter against the Bali Pure Purest Water Defenders and force a do-or-die match in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference semis.
As she landed after scoring Creamline’s final point and capping her 23-point outburst, Kaewpin could not help but shed a tear. All she wants is to keep playing and win a championship.
For her part, Valdez isn’t surprised with how fans have taken to Kaewpin. The three-time PVL MVP had played with Kaewpin in Thailand with 3BB Nakornonnt. Since recruiting her to play in the Philippines, Valdez knew Kaewpin would be special.
“Oo naman, yung mga Philippine volleyball supporters kasi, they really appreciate power, they really appreciate the talent,” said the Creamline skipper.
“Tsaka alam mo yung height niya (Kuttika) kasi, it’s just the same as Pinoys na tatalon siya ng mataas like Ella (De Jesus). So alam natin na mamahalin at mamahalin siya ng mga Pinoy, at hahanapin siya ng Pinoy pag Reinforced na conference.”
Even Bali Pure’s Jeng Bualee feels Kuttika has a future to be a returning import for the V-League in the years to come. Bualee, who has made several returns to the Philippines, appreciates her countryman’s heart for the game.
“Kuttika has a big heart. We played against her in Thailand and we know that we need to pay attention to her or else she will be great for the entire match,” Bualee explained.
“If she likes, I think she can keep coming back here and have many fans. She’s a great young player.”
