The difference in the dynamics between an international event and a domestic league doomed Creamline’s chances to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 AVC Women’s Volleyball Champions League.

Cool Smashers skipper Alyssa Valdez said unlike in the Premier Volleyball League, they don’t have the luxury of time to prepare in the AVC tourney, prompting them to make a quarterfinal exit following a tough 15-25, 22-25, 16-25 loss to Thai powerhouse Nakhon Ratchasima last Thursday at the Philsports Arena.

“Technically, in the PVL, we have time to study our opponents — we have more time,” Valdez said.

“In this tournament, you don’t know who the other teams will field or even which team will be sent. That’s the shock factor.”

The veteran outside hitter emphasized that the nature of AVC play demands adaptability, something that can’t always be prepared for through scouting reports or film sessions.

“I think that’s the beauty of the AVC tournament — you play based on your instincts depending on the situation,” she said.

Still, Valdez pointed out that this very unpredictability is what makes the game exciting.

“Honestly, there’s something thrilling about being caught off guard — it excites you as a player,” she added.

The Cool Smashers now turn their focus to the upcoming Reinforced Conference, with head coach Sherwin Meneses eyeing potential reinforcements.

Although no decisions have been finalized, Meneses remains hopeful they can bring back champion import Erica Staunton, who led them to the 2023 Reinforced Conference title.

“The Reinforced Conference is still a while away, so there are more options,” Meneses said.

“But we’re hoping we can get someone strong — especially if Erica is available come October.”