Courtney Schwan made it clear that she wants to return to the Philippines in the future, expressing deep gratitude for her first PVL experience with the Creamline Cool Smashers.
Courtney Schwan’s first PVL stint ended far earlier than she hoped.
Still, the Creamline import made sure to express nothing but gratitude and plenty of emotion after the Cool Smashers’ 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign came to a sudden halt Monday.
Inside the Creamline locker room after their quarterfinal loss to Petro Gazz, Schwan shared how heavy the atmosphere felt as the reality of the defeat — and impending roster changes — started to sink in.
“It was very sad,” Schwan told One Sports. “We got a couple of girls on the team that are not going to be on the team, or they're retiring. I didn't understand all of it because a lot of it was in Tagalog. But it was pretty sad in the locker room for everyone.”
Emotional farewell to Creamline
Schwan admitted she struggled to hold back tears, overwhelmed by the support and warmth she experienced during her short time with the Cool Smashers.
“Oh, I've been crying since I got in the locker room,” she said. “Everybody was so welcoming, and I'm just grateful for being here and the opportunity. The fans have been unreal, so I'm just happy to be here.”
A memorable first Philippine experience
Despite the abrupt ending, Schwan called her stay in the Philippines “unreal,” deeply moved by how passionate Filipinos are toward volleyball.
The 29-year-old spiker also got to tour the islands a bit after a short trip to Boracay, adding to her good experience.
“I say that with great admiration for the way that the Filipinos admire and support volleyball,” she shared.
With her strong performances and instant connection with Creamline’s supporters, the American import made it clear she would love nothing more than to return.
“Oh yeah, please have me back,” she said with a laugh. “Anybody who will take me.”
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.