Alex Eala in attendance for Game 2 of the PVL All-Filipino Conference Finals between Creamline and Choco Mucho at Araneta Coliseum.–PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala was one of the stars who were part of the all-time Premier Volleyball League attendance record of 24,459 in the All-Filipino Conference between Creamline and Choco Mucho in Finals Game 2 on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Finals Game 2 between the sister teams shattered the previous league record of 19,157 fans set at Mall of Asia Arena on November 18 last year.
Eala is enjoying her offseason, watching her first-ever PVL game with her Brazilian coach Dani Gomez.
“I didn’t know what to expect. Of course, going to the game but I’m so happy that this sport is very alive within the Filipino community,” the 18-year-old tennis star told reporters.
Willie Revillame and Vice Ganda were also part of the crowd.
The Rafael Nadal Academy graduate admitted that she is cheering for Creamline because of her physical therapist Haree Jan Rañeses, who is part of the Cool Smashers’ staff.
A general view of the record PVL crowd during Game 2 of the Finals between Creamline and Choco Mucho on Saturday at Araneta Coliseum.–PVL PHOTO
“I have to say a bit. I’m leaning toward Creamline because my PT is also the PT of Creamline but I think that these two teams have such a good competition and the spirit of being brave and it’s really inspiring to see and a fun break from my training,” said Eala.
Eala signed a customized card of her from a fan and took time for pictures with the volleyball supporters, who are also following her tennis journey.
“Well, I’m quite surprised na people know who I am here kasi puro volleyball so I’m happy to see that people are also following tennis and it really shows that my work also kind of makes a difference within Philippine sports it’s just nice to see and I’m very happy and flattered that more people now are following my journey,” she said.
The first Filipino to win a Grand Slam singles title hopes to have this amazing crowd in tennis someday.
“It’s inspiring because I also dream of this kind of atmosphere for tennis. It’s so nice to see the sportsmanship and the teamwork that they bring on the court,” Eala said.
Eala will play as a qualifier in the Australian Open in January next year.