Just Now: Creamline Gets Big Boost for AVC Tilt, Signs Russian & Kazakh Reinforcements
The Creamline Cool Smashers are making waves in the volleyball scene once again, as the powerhouse club confirmed a significant roster upgrade just in time for the upcoming AVC (Asian Volleyball Confederation) tournament. In a bold move to strengthen their title campaign, Creamline officially announced the signing of two towering international reinforcements — a Russian middle blocker and a Kazakh outside hitter — to bolster their already loaded roster.
A Statement of Intent
With the AVC tournament set to gather some of the best club teams across Asia, Creamline’s management made it clear that they are not content with simply participating. They’re coming to win. By acquiring these two foreign players, the Cool Smashers are sending a strong message to their rivals: they mean business.
The first major signing is Russian middle blocker Anastasiya Kuznetsova, a 6-foot-3 veteran known for her impressive blocking presence, fast slides, and offensive versatility. Kuznetsova brings with her a wealth of international experience, having played in several of Europe’s top leagues and representing Russia in numerous FIVB competitions.
Joining her is Aigerim Beketayeva, a 6-foot-1 outside hitter from Kazakhstan, famous for her powerful spikes and steady backrow defense. Beketayeva has been a consistent performer in Kazakhstan’s national team program and has earned multiple MVP awards in the Kazakhstan Volleyball Championship.
Both players are expected to immediately integrate into Creamline’s system and provide crucial depth and power on both ends of the floor.
Strengthening an Already Stacked Lineup
Creamline’s local roster needs no introduction. With national team standouts like Alyssa Valdez, Jia de Guzman, Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, and Ced Domingo, the Cool Smashers have long been a dominant force in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). Their chemistry, built over years of playing together, has turned them into one of the most successful and recognizable volleyball clubs in the country.
But as head coach Sherwin Meneses pointed out, international tournaments are a different battlefield.
“We’re going up against tall, experienced, and highly skilled teams from other Asian countries, many of whom have world-class players,” said Meneses. “Our local stars are amazing, but we need to match up in size, power, and depth. That’s where our reinforcements come in.”
The inclusion of Kuznetsova and Beketayeva is designed to address two of Creamline’s most pressing concerns: net defense and offensive variety. Kuznetsova’s height and blocking instincts are expected to disrupt opponents’ attacks, while Beketayeva’s versatility allows her to contribute as both a primary scorer and a dependable passer.
Fans Excited, Opponents Cautious
News of the double signing spread quickly across social media, with Creamline fans flooding timelines with excitement and anticipation. Many praised the management’s decision to seriously invest in imports, especially for a high-profile international competition like the AVC.
“Creamline is leveling up! Can’t wait to see them go toe-to-toe with Asia’s best,” one fan commented on Instagram.
Meanwhile, rival teams are taking notice. PVL teams and other Asian club representatives acknowledge that Creamline’s latest moves make them a legitimate threat.
“This is a different Creamline team now,” said a coach from one of the participating AVC clubs. “They were already tough to beat in the Philippines. With these reinforcements, they’ll be very hard to stop.”
What It Means for the AVC Campaign
Creamline is slated to represent the Philippines in the AVC Women’s Club Volleyball Championship, an annual continental competition that features elite club teams from across Asia. The tournament serves as a platform for clubs to test their mettle against regional heavyweights from Japan, China, Thailand, Iran, and Kazakhstan.
In past editions, Filipino clubs often struggled against taller and more experienced Asian squads. While heart and hustle have never been lacking, size and international experience have frequently been the missing pieces.
By bringing in Kuznetsova and Beketayeva, Creamline aims to finally break that barrier and position themselves as a serious contender in the tournament.
“We owe it to our fans and to Philippine volleyball to fight our hardest and give a good showing,” said team captain Alyssa Valdez. “Having Anastasiya and Aigerim with us gives us that extra firepower and confidence to face the best in Asia.”
Looking Ahead
The Cool Smashers are set to begin training with their new reinforcements later this month. Coach Meneses mentioned that both players are eager to join and are already reviewing Creamline’s system and playbook. The coaching staff is confident that with the right preparation, the team can quickly build on-court chemistry.
The AVC tilt is scheduled to begin in late May, with host venues and final team lineups to be confirmed soon. Creamline’s participation, now bolstered by their two new signings, adds an exciting new dimension to the tournament.
As one of the Philippines’ most beloved and followed volleyball teams, the Cool Smashers’ upgraded roster will no doubt draw attention, not just from local supporters but from volleyball enthusiasts around the continent. Whether this move leads to a historic run remains to be seen — but one thing’s certain: Creamline isn’t holding back.
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