It's the little things that go a long way.

Football player and politician Vito Sotto knows very well how to uplift the spirit of girlfriend Akari setter Michelle Cobb whenever things don't go her way.

For the Quezon City District 6 councilor, being there to listen and showing his support through simple gestures would instantly put a smile back on his bae's face.

"Basically, being supportive, being there for each other when they need your quality time or if she's tired after a long day just treating her with her favorite food or milk tea. It's in the little things of being there for someone," the grandson of former Senator Tito Sotto said.

Being both athletes albeit in different sports is also a plus for the couple.

Both understand the demands and sometimes the stress of training and competition.

"Yes, definitely. It's the same in every industry, may it be in showbiz or medical field if you and your partner are in the same field there's a certain level of understanding," the Chargers playmaker said.

"So I'd say it's a pro as an athlete and as someone who has a partner that's an athlete, it's a bonus."

It also helps that they can relate to what each other goes through as athletes.

"For sure, like if she's tired after training, if you're not an athlete you won't understand how that feels. Same if you have issues in the team like when it comes to the chemistry or things related to the game, or for any problem, no matter if it's sports or any problem in general, you can't really talk about your problems with someone who hasn't experienced it," Sotto explained.

"Of course, if they haven't experienced it, they won't understand it the way you do," he added.

But Sotto, who is set to sign with a new squad in the Philippines Football League, also knows to hold back and not step out of the line when it comes to their respective sports.

"Being in a different sport, I respect our boundaries. I don't want to be a know-it-all. The only time I speak is when she asks me. It's a way of respect to the person," he said.

Relationships are like team sports, you need to have a good mix of communication, understanding, respect, passion, teamwork and love to make it work.