Creamline Tests New Roster in PVL Vigan Tour

For the multi-titled Creamline Cool Smashers, the PVL On Tour kicking off Sunday, June 22, in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, is more than just a preseason showcase.

It’s a crucial opportunity to rebuild team chemistry, integrate new talent, and lay the foundation for another championship run.

“It’s not just about winning these games,” said Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses.

“This tour gives us a platform to build cohesion, especially now that we’ve added two young middle blockers who are learning our system.”

The Cool Smashers will open their campaign against the revamped Capital1 Solar Spikers at Chavit Coliseum and return to the court Monday to face the feisty Akari Chargers.

It’s an early litmus test for the 10-time league champions.

Beyond preparation, the Cool Smashers are also seeking redemption after a painful loss to the Petro Gazz Angels in the recent PVL All-Filipino Conference finals.

In the latest PVL Rookie Draft, Creamline selected National University standout Sheena Toring with the 12th overall pick and University of the Philippines product Nica Celis at No. 23.

Both are promising middle blockers expected to contribute right away, especially with several veterans still recovering.

Toring, who briefly played under Meneses at NU, brings not only skill but a leadership presence Meneses values.

“Malaking bagay si Sheena para sa amin, especially with her maturity and experience,” Meneses said.

“We were honestly lucky that she fell to us at 12. It’s great to continue what we started back in NU.”

Her composed and intelligent play fits well into a Creamline middle rotation featuring PVL Best Middle Blocker Bea De Leon, anchor Pangs Panaga, rising star Lorie Bernardo, and veteran Pau Soriano.

But with De Leon and other key middles limited in practice due to injury and therapy, the PVL On Tour offers Toring and Celis vital playing time to gel with the team.

“Siyempre, napaka-importante ng middle sa amin ngayon, lalo na’t may mga hindi pa nakakabalik sa full training,” added Meneses.

“Mas maganda na yung marami kaysa kulang—and I think both rookies deserve to be here with us.”

While Toring brings experience and leadership, Celis is turning heads with her athleticism and versatility.

“Napaka-athletic ni Celis. Sa Creamline, mahalaga yung versatility—someone who can adjust to different roles if needed,” said Meneses.

“She fits that mold well.”

Just weeks into training, both rookies are already being tested in drills and scrimmages, with no room for complacency on a team built on excellence.

“Lahat nagte-therapy, lahat may kanya-kanyang restrictions,” said Meneses, noting the team’s careful management of its veterans.

“But having more players actively training, especially young ones who bring energy, is a big advantage. I’d say the team is at around 60 to 70 percent right now.”

Still, stats only tell part of the story.

In a program built on discipline, teamwork, and elite talent, integrating rookies like Toring and Celis is as much about character as it is about capability.