Jema Galanza and the Creamline Cool Smashers during a game against Akari Chargers within the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference Play-In. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Jema Galanza was grateful to return just in time for Creamline’s home stretch within the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference after missing three games as a result of a minor knee injury.
Galanza returned to motion as a service specialist, helping Creamline book the last ticket to the semifinals with a 25-23, 25-20, 16-25, 25-16 win over Akari in a knockout Play-In on Tuesday at Filoil Centre in San Juan City.
Despite the limited motion, the previous league MVP was still capable of contribute in a limited role for Cool Smashers, who returns to semis after missing last 12 months’s Reinforced.
“Little by little, I’m getting there. The conditioning is already there, but I feel I still must train more consistently with the team so I can higher adjust and find my role,” said Galanza in Filipino.
Galanza also missed last 12 months’s Reinforced as a result of a foot injury and regained her form within the preliminaries before suffering one other minor setback.
But along with her experience, the group favorite spiker has learned to beat adversities and keep herself patient.
“I’ve been playing for a very long time now, so I understand that there are belongings you don’t expect to occur. As athletes, it’s normal to experience pain or injuries. But we’re grateful because our coaches and physical therapists are there to assist us recuperate,” said Galanza.
“At the tip of the day, mindset is significant. What matters most is with the ability to come back.”
Galanza hopes to proceed regaining her top shape as Creamline battles PLDT on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.